A mental health drop-in centre has been officially launched in memory of beloved nursery teacher who died exactly a year ago.
Shirley Findlay, from Peterhead, took her own life last August, aged just 37.
Loved ones were determined the tragedy should be used to help others, and have raised nearly £40,000 to create a space where people who are struggling can go to talk.
Shirley’s Space, at Crimond Medical Practice and Community Hub, was unveiled on Thursday – the anniversary of the mother-of-two’s death.
It will open to the public on September 3, and will give people a place to drop-in for a coffee and a chat. The service will be available on Tuesdays.
A text messaging support services will also begin in October.
More than 50 people attended the launch event, including Ms Findlay’s family, local politicians and representatives from north-east companies.
The same evening, Ms Findlay was remembered at a poignant event attended by 100 people.
Mrs Findlay’s nephew, Cameron Findlay, said: “The event went really well, the speeches went smoothly and we got a lot of good feedback.
“It is great to see the hard work pay off and really rewarding to see all of this come together.
“In my speech I tried to explain that this is not just another idea, this is my aunt’s legacy.
“It’s amazing seeing what has been created, we have so many photos up of Shirley across the hub, including a few of her time in Australia, where she loved.”
Shirley’s Space chief executive Fiona Weir added that “true passion” for helping others made the service stand out.
Mrs Weir, whose husband and son both lost their battle against mental health issues, got involved with the charity after reaching out to Ms Findlay’s family following her death.
She said: “It is fantastic that so many people came today and we got some really valuable feedback.
“We want to get really good at the service we provide – then expand in order to help even more people.
“We want to make a true difference.”
Shirley’s Space is still looking for donations or volunteers to help make the charity grow. E-mail shirleysspace@hotmail.com for more or go to
https://www.facebook.com/Shirleys-Space-321071408751783
