Comic Artist Zoe Thorogood Makes £25,000 Donation to Bradford Mind in Memory of Her Brother
Award-winning British comic book artist Zoe Thorogood has made a generous £25,000 donation to the local charity Bradford District and Craven Mind. This heartfelt contribution is dedicated to the memory of her brother James, who tragically died by suicide in 2024 at the age of 23.
Honouring James Through Creative Work
To honour her brother, Zoe utilised her creative talents to produce an exclusive holographic print. She pledged all the proceeds from this special artwork to mental health charities. After careful consideration, she selected the Bradford branch as a primary beneficiary.
Zoe chose this specific charity because the team personally supported her through her own journey with grief following James's passing. She shared that the charity provided a gentle, unrushed space where she felt she did not have to pretend she was coping.
"I chose Bradford District and Craven Mind because I know first-hand how much their help can mean when everything feels impossible," Zoe explained.
A Personal Commitment to Mental Health Support
The artist described James as an exceptionally kind person and expressed a deep commitment to honouring him through her work. "Art heals, and I hope I can continue using mine for good. I feel I have to give back in place of my brother's loss," she stated.
By sharing her personal story, Zoe aims to encourage more people to support local mental health services that provide essential, on-the-ground assistance. The impact of such support is substantial, as the charity aided more than 18,500 individuals across the region during the 2024–25 period alone.
Charity Director Expresses Gratitude
Steven Bancroft, director at Bradford District and Craven Mind, conveyed his sincere thanks for the passion and creativity behind Zoe's campaign. "We are so grateful for the passion, creativity and commitment behind Zoe's campaign. This donation has raised funds towards our vital mental health services," he said.
He further emphasised the importance of creativity in mental wellbeing, noting, "We know that creativity can often play a crucial role in supporting mental wellbeing, helping people to slow down, process difficult emotions and express what words alone can't reach."
This significant donation underscores the powerful connection between art, personal loss, and community support, highlighting the ongoing need for accessible mental health resources in the Bradford area.
