Heart-warming success for Harrogate mental health charity which brings 'light to the darkness'

Harrogate Wellspring executive director Emily Fullarton with the Bishop of Leeds, the Rt Rev Nick Baines at Wellspring in Harrogate.

Wellspring Therapy & Training, based in High Street, Starbeck, has hosted its first virtual concert premiere.

Joined by some extremely talented classical and contemporary musicians online, the charity shared the life-saving work it does to support children, young people and adults suffering from emotional distress and poor mental health.

The impact of coronavirus has seen an increase in poor mental health in the Harrogate community, so the demand on services like Wellspring has inevitably increased, too.

One Wellspring client said counselling literally saved her life and added "I can only describe my counselling as coming out of the darkness and into the light."

Wellspring executive director Emily Fullarton said: “As many of our fundraising events have been unable to go ahead and our income has fallen, we launched the virtual concert idea as a way to raise funds and survive this challenging period.

“More than 325 households have tuned in to watch the concert since it was launched, and we would love to see this number grow.

"If you find yourself with a spare hour tune in to enjoy the uplifting, fantastic performances from local, professional musicians and local high school students.

“Thank you so much for your support, all funds will go towards supporting children and adults suffering from emotional distress and poor mental health.

"Your help can make a real difference.

"Just visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8MocjBZb6M&feature=youtu.be”

Musicians include: concert pianist Julian Saphir; singers Bryony Burnham and David Woods; Ben Pringle and his band; guitarist and singer George Dickson; saxophonist Anna Young; and harpist Meghan Gayle.

Emily said “If you enjoy the concert performances we would encourage you to donate what you feel able to through our Virgin Money Giving page: https://bit.ly/3hUCeCW or via text: 10CONCERT to 70450 to donate £10."

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