Limerick gig aims to raise awareness of mental health

AS HE went on a run in the city, Director at Moore Financial, Karl Daly, observed a group of orange vests patrolling along the three bridges – that's how he found out one of his friends was volunteering for the Limerick Suicide Watch.

“I suppose what fascinated me was that I always use running as a kind of space for myself to clear my head. And I was just kind of shocked and fascinated to see these people were patrolling the river because other people were coming down to the river for a much different reason,” Karl explained.

After realising people were struggling with their mental health and “coming to the river to end their lives,” Karl decided to create Music for Mental Health.

To raise awareness on mental health, the initiative aims to raise funds for charities while offering a stage for local artists to perform on.

A social impact event uniting artists and businesses, Music for Mental Health, took place for the first time in Dolans in 2018.

For their first edition, the project welcomed to the stage Noel Hogan from the Cranberries, Hermitage Green, as well as Emma Langford.

“In January 2018, two days after Noel was on stage with us, the word got out that Dolores passed away, so it was a hugely emotional time,” reflected Karl.

After hearing the sad news, Music for Mental Health decided to keep going and “celebrate life” by organising a concert every year.

This year's gig takes place this Friday, January 27 at Dolans - see dolans.ie for tickets.

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Speaking of the timing of the gig, Karl explained: “January tends to be a month when people have been suffering, it’s a tough month. You’ve just been over Christmas, and it might not have been a nice time for you. You have a whole year ahead of you again, and you’re facing a new year of uncertainty.”

The initiative also gives the opportunity for young artists to be able to play on a renowned stage.

“We’ve spoken to a lot of young artists, and the fact they’re playing in Dolans, an iconic venue in Limerick, is always a big plus,” he said.

To raise funds, the organiser asks companies to donate money in exchange for tickets to the event. This year, Music for Mental Health will donate all funds to Limerick Suicide Watch, Blue Box, as well as Corpus Christi Primary School.

Pallasgreen native, Joyce, will be performing alongside The Stray Saints, Pa Sheehy, and several others. This year, the event will take place on January 27.