Meldreth father launches trust to support young people with depression in memory of talented Edward Mallen

Edward Mallen (Image: Archant)

Edward Mallen took his own life after suffering a sudden onset of depression – and his family want to spare other young people the same fate. The MindEd Trust aims to improve awareness and support for young people via the introduction of MindEducation programmes in primary, secondary and sixth form schools in Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire and the first programmes will begin in September.

The 18-year-old’s father and chairman of the trust, Steve Mallen said: “As promised at Edward’s funeral, we have taken time to carefully research this complex and difficult aspect of health care.

“The objective of the trust is simple – we want to give the NHS less to do. Save one and you save dozens of family members and friends from terrible worry and suffering.

“Edward’s story has attracted national attention and, in formulating The MindEd Trust, we have been fortunate enough to be able to draw on the expertise of leading academics, health professionals and charity executives in generating a focused and effective vehicle for helping young people across our community.”

MindEd Trust logo (Image: Archant)

Edward was a high performing student at Hills Road Sixth Form College in Cambridge and had been offered a place at the prestigious University of Cambridge for his outstanding academic record. He was also a gifted pianist, and a piano logo for the trust was drawn by Lucy Barlow, Edward’s primary school music teacher. Steve said the image ‘captures Edward’s spirit perfectly’.

At the Hills Road Leavers Ball tonight in Linton, students will take part in a raffle for which many local businesses have donated gifts.

A total of 500 balloons will be released at the ball both to remember Edward and to promote the trust.

You can donate to the MindEd Trust by visiting https://crowdfunding.justgiving.com/themindedtrust.