Comic artist raises £25,000 for Bradford mental health charity in memory of her brother
Award‑winning British comic book artist and author Zoe Thorogood has donated £25,000 to local mental health charity Bradford District and Craven Mind. The donation was made in memory of her brother James, who died by suicide in 2024 at the age of 23.
In the wake of her brother’s death, Zoe turned to her art to channel her grief, creating an exclusive holographic print and donating all proceeds to UK-based mental health charities, one of those charities being Bradford District and Craven Mind.
Artist Zoe pictured holding her exclusive holographic print
Zoe chose Bradford District and Craven Mind as one of the beneficiaries after personally receiving support from the charity to help navigate her grief. She explained that when she felt lost, the charity offered a gentle, unrushed space where she didn’t 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 described her brother as exceptionally kind and someone the world should never have lost, which fuels her commitment to honour him through her work. She spoke about the role art has played in her healing.
“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.”
Zoe encourages people to make donations to local mental health charities, highlighting how essential on‑the‑ground support has become for a growing number of people. In 2024–25 Bradford District and Craven Mind supported over 18,500 people in the region.
Steven Bancroft, Director at Bradford District and Craven Mind said:
“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. 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.”
Artist Zoe pictured holding her exclusive holographic print
Bradford District and Craven Mind provide a range of mental health services from early intervention to maintaining wellbeing and supporting people in crisis. The charities vision is that no one in Bradford District and Craven should face a mental health challenge alone.
For local mental health services visit the website (bdcmind.org.uk). Or call their helpline Guide-Line on 08001 884 884 for confidential emotional support.
For crisis mental health support, call First Response on 0800 952 1181 or call NHS 111 and select the mental health option.
To support Bradford District and Craven Mind visit their website: bdcmind.org.uk/support-us
Image caption (top of page): Zoe pictured with staff at Bradford District and Craven Mind