A courageous mother has called on those who are suffering to reach out for support following the heartbreaking loss of her beloved teenage son. Joshua Robert Jolley took his own life at his home on 7 August last year.
An inquest into the 14-year-old's devastating death heard there had been no prior mental health concerns or incidents of self-harm. In a statement, his mother Rachel told the inquest at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Friday that Joshua was deeply loved by his entire family and friends.
Born in Manchester, she said from the moment of his arrival, he brought 'warmth, humour and a gentle joy' to their lives.
Joshua lived in Nunthorpe with his family and was a Year Nine pupil at Nunthorpe Academy. Describing him as a compassionate and considerate boy, his mother said Joshua's smile 'lit up every room' and that his laughter would remain with them always.
A cello player and dedicated martial arts student, Mrs Jolley said Joshua tackled everything with 'curiosity and excitement'. Among their most treasured memories were simply spending time at home together, the house filled with laughter, and walking their dog across the hills, reports Teesside Live.
'Losing Joshua has left a hole in our hearts and lives that can never be filled,' she said. 'His absence is felt every single day.'
In the closing part of her statement, Mrs Jolley courageously appealed to anyone who is struggling, particularly young people 'who feel that they must hide their pain', to speak to somebody, whether that be a parent, friend, teacher, or a charity. 'Your life matters,' she said.
'The world is a better place with you in it. Even in the darkest moments there is a way forward. Dark times do pass, light does return, you will feel joy again.'
Offering his sympathies to Joshua's family, Assistant Coroner for Teesside and Hartlepool, Benjamin Haigh, recorded a conclusion of suicide.
