Our story, mission, and commitment to mental health awareness
We are Lucianne and Antony Fitzgerald, the founders of Salisbury's Mental Health Awareness Gala and the Safe Haven Mental Health Project — a passionate, non-profit initiative born from both personal experience and a deep desire to make a difference in our community.
We were heartbreakingly knowing a growing number of our friends and their children struggling silently with mental health issues, some tragically losing their lives to suicide. Feeling compelled to take action, in 2021 we hosted the first-ever Salisbury Mental Health Awareness Gala. What began as a heartfelt response to an urgent need quickly grew into something much bigger.
Lucianne & Antony Fitzgerald - Founders
Now held annually, the gala has become a powerful and unifying event in our city, attracting people from all over the country. Over the past four years, we've raised over £38,000, with all proceeds donated to various mental health charities that are working tirelessly to support individuals in crisis.
In 2024, inspired by the impact of the gala and driven by a vision to do even more, we launched the Safe Haven Mental Health Project. Our mission is to provide direct support and fundraising for local organisations helping those battling mental health challenges through mental wellbeing sessions, access to therapy, counselling, and by helping people find the right services and guidance they need.
We aim to become a registered charity by early 2026, expanding our reach and ability to serve those who need it most.
"At the core of everything we do is a simple belief: no one should ever feel alone in their struggle."
Through Safe Haven and our continued fundraising efforts, we are committed to being a lifeline — a safe, supportive, and compassionate presence in the lives of those who need it.
We're committed to breaking down barriers and opening honest conversations about mental health.
Creating safe spaces for dialogue, understanding, and shared experiences in our community.
Supporting healing through community, compassion, and connecting people with the right help.
"Life gets tough, but so are we, I know it's rough, just keep fighting"
In loving memory of Lee Scott, Glenn Collier & Kieran McMenamin
"I hope you finally found your light, there's no more darkness now"
This song was written as a tribute and a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone.
Our dedication to mental health awareness has been recognized by our community
Lucianne and Antony won Fundraiser of the Year 2025 at the end of season Kickstart FC awards, recognizing their tireless dedication to mental health awareness.
Hear from our community members and supporters
"From a mother losing her child, the thought of your child being forgotten is so heartbreaking. The gala keeps Kieran's memory alive. I can't thank Lucianne and Antony enough. Over the years I've raised thousands, and now I support the gala and Safe Haven. A million thank yous never seem enough for what they've done for me."
Nickkie Pomfrett
Kieran's Mum
"18th September 2018 our lives changed forever. Our darling son Lee died by suicide. The first Mental Health Gala filled us with dread, but after attending we realised the dedication and empathy that Lucianne puts into the Galas does exactly what she set out to do - raise awareness and put our sons' and daughters' names up in lights. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts."
Ray & Ann Scott
Lee's Parents
"The Mental Health Galas are always special - informative yet very personal, and the love in the room is something everyone feels. It shows us we aren't on our own and it's OK not to be OK. Lucianne and Antony's gala touches everyone that attends, as it's that powerful and relatable. Every single one of us knows someone that suffers with mental health."
Kelly Gibson-Soul
Community Supporter
"After battling my own mental health for years, attending the Gala in November 2024 was mind blowing. I was incredibly anxious, but Lucianne instantly put me at ease. The evening was empowering - I laughed, I cried. Since then, the team helped me sign up for beekeeping, something I've wanted to do for years. I can't express my gratitude enough for all they've done in this short time."
Kareena Nadakeke
Gala Attendee
Together, we can break the stigma, open up conversations, and most importantly, heal.