James Bulger's mum shares advice on opening up in visit to Wolverhampton company

Denise Fergus, James' mother, visited Wolverhampton company Wates Construction for a Mental Health Week fundraiser to talk about the importance of opening up in the construction sector.

The appearance was organised by the James Bulger Memorial Trust as an opportunity to talk about the spike in suicides in the construction industry and the importance of mental health.

Kym Darby, chairwoman for the James Bulger Memorial Trust, said: "This year we were approached by construction company Wates to spread awareness about mental health in the construction industry and also to say they wanted the trust to be their chosen charity for the fundraising week."

Ms Fergus also spoke about how important it is to open up, she talked about her book, and that she had to revisit a lot of bad times, but also about how cathartic it was to open up, it was the best thing she had ever done.

The appearance across two of the Wates’ Office sites, Wolverhampton and Tamworth, was set up after it was revealed that suicide in the construction industry had spiked by 22 per cent in recent years.

Ms Darby, who also works for Legionella and Fire Safe Services, continued: "It's so important to talk, especially in the construction sector where mental health is still a bit of a taboo subject.

"We think that Wates' fundraising week to help raise awareness for Mental Health Awareness Week is fantastic.

The charity was also chosen as part of Wates' fundraising for Mental Awareness Week.

Wates regional managing director, Stewart Reid, said: "We recognise that mental health is an ongoing challenge for the sector; therefore, supporting positive wellbeing is a key priority for Wates as we continued to invest in training, services and resources for our staff, customer and the community.

"We are proud that the activities held throughout the week have generated important funds for the James Bulger Memorial Trust, with match funding from the business. The charity provides invaluable support to young people and their families in the face of adversity."

The fundraiser raised over £6,000 for the James Bulger Memorial Trust, which will help to fund ongoing operations by the group to help and support families who have been affected by crime, grief and illness.