The family of a loving Plymouth Dad who took his own life after months on an NHS mental health waiting list say they are still more than £1,400 short of the cost needed to give him a proper funeral.
Dan Higgins, 34, tragically died on 26 June following a long battle with his mental health. Despite asking for help, he was placed on a waiting list and never received the support he so urgently needed.
His loved ones are now again appealing to the community to help them raise the final amount needed for his funeral, which is planned to take place on Wednesday 24 July. So far, the fundraiser has reached £2,562 of its £4,000 target after Plymouth Plus coverage.
Dan’s funeral is just over a week away and his family is still short. Even £1 helps. Please, if you’re able, give what you can today.
At 10am, Dan will leave his family home and travel down through Saltash Passage. The funeral service will take place at Park Crematorium at 11am. His family is asking everyone attending to wear something blue, Dan’s favourite colour.
A wake will follow from 12pm to 3pm at Kings Tamerton Community Centre.
Dan’s wife Abbie, along with family friend Stephanie Taylor who launched the GoFundMe campaign, are urging people across Plymouth to help in any way they can.
"With Dans passing, his beautiful wife, Abbie, obviously wants to celebrate him for the amazing person he was.
"Unfortunately, without a life insurance policy in place or a financial miracle Abbie will not be able to give him even a basic funeral.
"We know times are hard for everyone, however if anyone feels they could spare even £1 to help towards Dans final journey, we would be forever grateful.
"All money raised will pay directly, for Dans funeral."
Any remaining funds will be used to create Memory Bears from Dan’s favourite clothes for his children and wife, so they can always carry a part of him with them.
Dan’s death has raised serious concerns about the state of mental health services in Plymouth. His family say he was failed by a broken system that left him waiting for care he never received.
A family friend told Plymouth Plus:
“There is not enough support for those like Dan who were having to suffer in silence. There was just no help available, just the waiting list."
According to NHS England, more than 16,500 people have waited over 18 months for mental health treatment. Almost one million people are currently on waiting lists, with demand far outpacing available services.
Dan’s family do not want anyone else to suffer the way he did. But right now, they are simply hoping Plymouth can help give him the send-off he deserves.
If you or someone you know needs support, please visit our dedicated help and support page here.
You can also contact the Samaritans on 116 123, 24 hours a day, or email jo@samaritans.org.
Sign up for free below to get notified with all the latest breaking news from Plymouth Plus.
