Marks & Spencer is delighted to embark on the next chapter of its impactful partnership with Jigsaw, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health, by announcing celebrity chef Mark Moriarty as the new M&S X Jigsaw Partnership Ambassador.
“Our commitment to Jigsaw and the wellbeing of Ireland’s young people is unwavering, and we’re incredibly proud of the difference we’re making together,” said Eddie Murphy, M&S Country Director Ireland and Northern Ireland. “We are absolutely thrilled to have Mark Moriarty as our M&S Jigsaw Partnership Ambassador. His passion for supporting young people and his understanding of the importance of communication align with our shared mission to drive awareness and raise €350,000 over three years.”
Director of Communications and Fundraising at Jigsaw, Mike Mansfield commented “All at Jigsaw are delighted to have Mark on board as the ambassador for our partnership with M&S. From day one, Mark has shown a real interest in the cause and his understanding of the issue and ability to communicate this will be of huge benefit. As our young people’s mental health continues to deteriorate, what is clear is that we need a collective effort to address the fundamental challenges we face. Having someone of Mark’s stature on board is a significant and important step in supporting this effort”.
Commenting on his new role, Mark Moriarty, M&S Jigsaw Partnership Ambassador, shared his enthusiasm: “I’m delighted to be M&S’ Partnership Ambassador for Jigsaw. In my view, young people are growing up in a world with ever increasing challenges – from tech to social media to social inequality and lacking in support structures to deal with them and flourish. As someone who grew up in a family of mental health professionals, it means a lot to partner with an organisation like Jigsaw, particularly as food is a common connection for everyone, no matter what your background.”
When asked about Jigsaw’s work, Mark highlighted, “Their practical approach to support, take for example the 1 on 1 chat service. For some people, support is as simple as having somebody listen to you.” He further emphasised the crucial role of Jigsaw’s services: “I think we are aware of the ever increasing disconnect between people of all ages. However, communication, education and mentorship are crucial in our formative years to give us the tools to deal with all the challenges every person will face. This is where Jigsaw comes in for people who may fall through the cracks.”
Through his ambassadorship, he hopes to convey the message that “Every single person will experience challenges in their lives and it’s how you deal with them that will determine how much enjoyment you can get from life. Perfection doesn’t exist. As a society we need to work together to overcome challenges and communication is the most effective way to achieve this. It won’t be found online or in a phone.”
His personal connection to youth mental health runs deep: “Absolutely, I was the odd one out in my family, all of whom were and are mental health professionals. We grew up in a home with an awareness of mental health before the conversation was as wide as it is now.”
For young people struggling, Mark advises: “The very first step to improving the situation is firstly recognising there is an issue and then secondly (and the hardest step) is asking for help. Help is a very strong word that can suggest weakness, so I would say ask for advice instead. Thankfully, we have people like Jigsaw who are there to offer advice.”
The M&S and Jigsaw partnership aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people across Ireland by raising vital funds and awareness for mental health support whilst supporting Jigsaw’s ambitious goal of reaching 1.5 million young people and their families with vital mental health support and services.
The partnership has successfully raised more than €150,000 for Jigsaw to date, demonstrating the profound generosity of M&S customers and colleagues. These pivotal contributions enable Jigsaw to expand its reach, aiming to provide trusted and crucial mental health support and services to 1.5 million young people and their families by 2026. In an exciting new initiative to further this goal, M&S is proud to announce the “Mind Over Miles” relay marathon run from M&S Galway to Dublin Mary Street, taking place on September 25th and 26th. This event will involve up to 30 hours of continuous running with the goal of raising additional funds and awareness for Jigsaw, supporting young people’s mental health across Ireland. You can donate here:https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/M211