Kent family sets up mental health fund to support young people

Mother Kerry Holmes and step-father Peter Scutts want to create something positive from Elliott's death

A Kent family who set up a memorial fund following the death of their son are raising money to support students.

The Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund (EHMF) was established in 2020 following the 19-year-old's death from suicide.

Peter Scutts, Elliott's step-father, said there were "too many barriers" for youngsters to access support.

The Department of Health and Social Care said it was investing an extra £2.3bn a year in mental health services.

EHMF offers young people in the Gravesham area direct access to private mental health counselling.

It aims to work with local schools, hospitals and Kent Police to signpost young people and their families to their service.

The fund says it has already supported almost 200 people.

Elliott Holmes took his own life at the age of 19

Mr Scutts said Elliott experienced mental health problems as a young boy, which worsened during the pandemic.

Dan Walton, associate headteacher of St John's School in Gravesend, said staff have seen a rise in challenges in some young people, particularly post-pandemic.

"We have support mechanisms in place in school but the service that Peter offers with professional counsellors is really easy for students to access," he said.

Mr Scutts said: "If we've helped maybe save one life, that would be absolutely incredible.

"But if we've changed one person's life significantly, then all of this what we've done will have been worth it."

A health department spokesperson said it was investing in NHS mental health services to significantly increase provisions available.

"Last year, 740,000 children and young people under 18 were supported through NHS mental health services - a 29% increase since 2021.

"Our long term plan will deliver the fastest expansion in mental health services in the NHS's history, and our additional funding will also increase the number of mental health support teams in schools to reach at least 50% of pupils in England by the end of March 2025," the spokesperson said.

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