A peer-led suicide prevention charity is set to launch in Banbridge in honour of a much-loved and popular young man who tragically took his own life, aged just 20-years-old.
The new charity known as The Stig Initiative has been established by Jack ‘Stig’ Murray’s mum, Lynne Metcalfe to help ensure all young people “suffering in silence” locally know they have somewhere to turn.
Together with a team of support from Jack’s friends, Lynne is using her “lived experience” to provide peer-led support, educational awareness, and practical resources to help people navigate grief, crisis and recovery.
“We want to break the stigma around mental health in a positive and inclusive way,” their website reads.
Of Jack, a description reads: “Jack brought laughter, energy and light into our lives. Losing him is a space that cannot be filled.
“His death devastated his family and friends, and our aim in creating the Stig Initiative is to remember and honour not only Jack but all those who have lost their lives to suicide — and for all those struggling in silence.
“Together we can turn pain into purpose, raise awareness, remind people they are not alone and break the stigma of mental health. Showing up matters. Checking in matters. Talking matters.”
Jack tragically took his own life on November 9, 2025. He was the beloved son of Lynne and Martin, much loved brother of Harry, Oliver and the late Hannah, cherished grandson of the late Janet, David, Noel, Adela and the late Monica and Colin and the treasured nephew of Marissa, Brian, Andy and Orla.
Through The Stig Initiative the charity aims to provide support with six meaningful ways; a monthly 18+ event which could be anything from padel to hiking or Let’s Go Hydro; Stig’s Companion, offering an understanding “listening ear”; Stig’s Advice, offering free, professional guidance if you’re going through a Coroner’s enquiry or inquest; Stig’s Packages, practical resources, comfort items and a gentle guide for the first, hardest weeks; Training and education and Stig’s Signposting, for immediate professional crisis support.
The charity will host its official launch event on September 13 to coincide with Jack’s 22nd birthday and World Suicide Prevention Day, where participants are invited to attend a special football match.
The match will see STIG FC take on MENtality Men’s Mental Health Group in the battle for The Jack Murray Cup.
It will also feature an “incredible” raffle, burger stall, games for the kids and, best of all, crowd favourite DJ Greener will be keeping the entertainment going throughout!
The event also hopes to raise vital funds to help get The Stig Initiative off the ground.
You can make a donation to The Stig Initiative fundraiser here.
Find out more about The Stig Initiative here.
