Mary’s Story

The Life Matters Charity was born from grief, resilience, and a determination to ensure that no child suffers in silence.

Founder Mary Brockwell experienced a childhood shaped by significant adversity. Growing up in a home affected by mental illness, substance misuse, gambling, and domestic violence, she became a young carer to her parents and six siblings. One of her siblings, living with autism, later developed schizophrenia.

During her early years, Mary endured physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Despite disclosing her experiences, those responsible were not held accountable.

By the age of 11, Mary was working in Brixton, London, and by 13 she had a full-time job. Although much of her income was taken, it enabled her to meet her basic needs and survive. While struggling with her mental health, she became involved in gangs and was exposed to both criminal and sexual exploitation. These challenges continued into adulthood, where she experienced further abusive relationships, including a long-term marriage that reflected the patterns of her early life.

Mary is neurodivergent, and this plays a vital role in shaping her empathy, insight, and commitment to supporting others—particularly those who feel unheard or misunderstood. Mary’s Different Mind, Open Heart — Proud to Be Herself. Strong Through Every Challenge. Proud to Be AuDHD.

The Turning Point

The defining moment in Mary’s life came with the devastating loss of her younger brother, Lee.

After years of homelessness, Lee died by suicide at the age of 25.

This loss became the catalyst for change. Determined to ensure that others would not experience the same pain, Mary made the decision to turn her grief into action.

The Life Matters Charity Today

From this purpose, The Life Matters Charity was created.

The charity provides support, tools, and resources to help children, young people, and families build resilience and improve their emotional wellbeing. To date, Mary’s work has directly supported over 60 children and 180 family members.

Its flagship programme, A Child’s Voice, empowers children with the skills and confidence to understand their emotions, navigate challenges, and speak openly about their experiences—ensuring no child struggles in silence.

Our Mission

To provide evidence-based early intervention and support for children and young people who are at risk of self-harm, are currently self-harming, or have made suicide attempts. Through A Child’s Voice, we protect, support, and empower children, ensuring they are heard, safe, and resilient. Our services respond to crisis, promote recovery, and equip children and families with the tools to prevent future harm.

Our Vision 

​We envision a UK where every child has access to A Child’s Voice programmes — where no child suffers in silence, no family faces crisis alone, and every young person has the opportunity to heal, thrive, and build resilience.  

A Message of Hope

Mary now shares her story to inspire others and demonstrate that, even in the face of overwhelming adversity, change is possible.

Her work is driven by one simple belief:

Every life truly matters.