Memorial Quilt Project Comes to Inverness to Honour Loved Ones Lost to Suicide

A moving memorial quilt created by people who have lost loved ones to suicide will go on display in Inverness as part of a Scotland-wide tour.

The Lothians Speak Their Name group was formed to create a patchwork quilt paying tribute to those who have died by suicide in the Edinburgh and Lothians area.

Each of the 49 tapestry squares has been handcrafted by bereaved family members and friends, honouring the lives, memories, and stories of those they have lost.

Now, in partnership with local mental health and suicide prevention charity Mikeysline, the quilt will be hosted at Inverness Cathedral for several weeks from March 30th, where a series of community events will invite Highland residents to connect and contribute to their own Speak Their Name quilt.

Upcoming Events at Inverness Cathedral

• Cuppa with the Quilt – March 31st, 4pm–6pm
• Arts in Nature ‘Crafternoon’ – April 22nd, 4pm–6pm
• Music with Mikeysline – April 23rd, 6pm–8pm (open invitation for local musicians)

Quotes

Sue Henderson from Lothians Speak Their Name said: “Every square on this quilt carries a story - stories of love, loss, and the people we miss every day. By bringing the quilt to Inverness, we hope to give others the space to remember openly, to speak their loved ones’ names, and to feel less alone.” 

Allana Stables, Bee the Change Manager at Mikeysline, said: “This beautiful artwork raises awareness of suicide prevention in a creative and meaningful way. It reminds us that behind every square is a person who remains deeply loved. We are honoured to support this tour and help our community reduce stigma and inspire hope.” 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Pictures: Image of the quilt at a previous display.

Podcast: Susan Finlay and Sue Henderson of Lothian Speak Their Name currently feature on the latest episode of our Speaking of Suicide podcast, discussing the project and its purpose in-depth. This can be found at https://getinvolved.mikeysline.co.uk/podcasts/

Mikeysline: Mikeysline operates 365 days a year, accessible through their text line at 07786207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000, messenger and via its website and live chat. They offer face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at their Inverness headquarters, and in their Dingwall Alness, Nairn, Tain, Wick, Thurso and Elgin hubs. Here, people can engage in one-to-one support, or at some venues join in group sessions for adults, men, families and young people.

The Mikeysline mobile app: Along with their latest news, events and ways to get involved, the app makes it even easier for those in need of help to reach out for support.

Links to download our App: Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thecafeapp.mikeysline&pcampaignid=web_share iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/mikeysline/id6736364818

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide; provides support for businesses; works closely with teachers and pupils in schools across the North of Scotland.

For more information, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk or find Mikeysline on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Hive on the Road: Launched in 2024, Mikeysline’s Hive on the Road enables support staff to provide accessible 1:1 support sessions in the more rural areas of the Highlands, Islands and Moray. The initiative was made possible by a generous grant from The Wolfsen Foundation which allowed Mikeysline to purchase its first transit van and enlist Vulcan Van Conversations to make modifications. Additional grants from McDonalds in the Community and West Fraser also supported the development and ongoing costs of the project. In 2025, West Fraser remain our key sponsor partner for our original Hive on the Road. Our second Hive on the Road, launched in 2025 is funded by the Royal Foundation.

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