Brothers host Wembley gig in memory of sister

To raise funds for the perinatal mental health charitable fund in memory of their sister, Charlotte, Devon brothers Jono and James Grant are hosting a sold out Wembley Arena Gig on Friday 13 November.

Jono Grant is one third of internationally renowned British dance act Above & Beyond, alongside fellow members Tony McGuiness and Paavo Siljamäki – his brother James Grant is the band’s manager.

Charlotte was a well-respected member of the Perinatal Mental Health Service, provided across Devon and Torbay by Devon Partnership NHS Trust. Her family have set up the Little Something charitable fund, named after the Above & Beyond song of the same title, to continue Charlotte’s commitment to the development of perinatal mental health for women who will require the service in the future.

Jono said: “Post-natal depression is often misunderstood, as it takes hold at what is supposed to be one of the happiest times of a woman’s life. Charlotte was passionate about de-stigmatising the condition and helping mothers be the best they could be. We’ve called the charity “Little Something” because Charlotte felt the lyrics captured the essence of her work and the experience women describe with post-natal illness.”

The band’s gig at Wembley Arena will celebrate Charlotte’s life, increase awareness of perinatal mental health issues and raise money for the Little Something fund, which is managed by Devon Partnership NHS Trust. The Trust provides mental health and learning disability services across Devon and the wider South West. The Perinatal Mental Health Service is dedicated to working with pregnant women and new mothers who are worried about their emotional or mental wellbeing.

Dr Jo Black, Consultant Perinatal Psychiatrist, commented: “This is an incredibly valuable service. For many women, pregnancy is a period of excited expectation and good mental wellbeing, but for a significant number it is not. Expectant mums can feel guilty, ashamed and embarrassed by feeling low at this time in their life. In many cases, the ability to discuss these feelings and receive reassurance and support can be enough to turn things around without the need for any mental health intervention.

“It is hoped that through the generosity of Above & Beyond, and Charlotte’s “Little Something” fund, we can raise awareness of the importance of perinatal mental health, not just nationally, but globally and highlight the importance of providing thoughtful and comprehensive mental health care to new mums so that they and their children can get off to the best possible start.”