Leading men’s suicide prevention charity James’ Place has recruited two new trustees to its board following an open recruitment process.
James’ Place offers free, life-saving therapy to men who are experiencing a suicidal crisis at centres in Liverpool, London and Newcastle. The charity was founded by Clare Milford Haven and Nick Wentworth-Stanley following the tragic death of their son James to suicide in 2006. Suicide is the leading cause of death in men under 35 and men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women.
The charity has been joined by Dr Nick Broughton, a consultant psychiatrist by background and currently Chief Executive of Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire & Berkshire West ICB, and Chair of the Southeast Region Mental Health Strategy and Transformation Board, and Joana Libano Monteiro, a Director at Google who has personal lived experience of suicide bereavement and will also bring her professional expertise to the board.
Chief Executive of James’ Place, Ellen O’Donoghue, said: “We are delighted that Nick and Joana have joined our board at what is a very exciting time for the charity. They both bring substantial experience and will add significantly to our governance and direction. We are thrilled to have them on board as we continue to grow. We have already helped over 3,600 men since we opened our first centre in 2018 and we have big ambitions to extend our support across the country by opening two more centres, with Birmingham next to open in early 2026.”
Joana Libano Monteiro said: “I am honoured and deeply humbled to be joining James’ Place as a trustee. The vital, life-saving work they do for men in suicidal crisis is incredibly inspiring, and it’s a mission that resonates with me on a very personal level. I’m eager to contribute my experience and passion to support James’ Place continued growth and ensure they can reach even more men who need their help. I truly believe in James’ Place’s unique values and mission and look forward to being part of such a dedicated team.”
Dr Nick Broughton said: “I am absolutely delighted to have joined the board of trustees and to be able to contribute to the work of this fantastic charity. I have followed James’ Place growth with great interest since first hearing about its mission and am thrilled to now be able to help its further development.”
Men who are in suicidal crisis can seek support from James’ Place by contacting them directly Monday-Friday from 9:30am-5:30pm. Visit www.jamesplace.org.uk for more information. If you or someone you know is suicidal you can access 24 hour support via the NHS on 111 (option two), Samaritans on 116 123, text SHOUT to 85258, or seek help from your local A&E department.