Jack's Shack raises money for mental health survivors in this unique way

People waited patiently outside Jack's Shack in London Road to have the semicolon tattoo which raises awareness of mental health issues and suicide prevention. 

Owner of the tattoo studio Neil Gorman said his struggle with depression encouraged him to get involved with the Semicolon Project.

He tattooed scores of people with one of several semicolon tattoo designs which symbolised that the story is not over with all proceeds going to charity.

Mr Gorman said: "I think it will start a new conversation, it doesn't get spoken about enough, especially in my generation, people in their 40s and 50s.

Jack's Shack on London Road
"People are going through a lot of stuff because of Covid-19, and so much is going on. 

"It's more of a pandemic than Covid-19."

The tattoo parlour was offering walk-ins all day which led to over three hour waiting times for some customers. 

Mr Gorman said: "To have the patience to do that shows how much it means to people." 

Jack's Shack - Owner of the tattoo parlour Neil Gorman

Helen Wallace, who was waiting in line, said: "This is my first ever tattoo, my daughter has been trying to get me one for years, but it is a prevalent issue and it's a good cause.

"We've been waiting for over two hours, but it's worth the time. 

"The semi-colon symbolises that your story isn't over and there is more to come." 

Next in the queue was mother and daughter, Sandra and Katie Wakclam who also came down to support the cause.

They opted for a semicolon behind the ear and a semicolon on the wrist with a heart, respectively. 

Sandra Wakclam, who works as a school nurse, said: "People want to take part that's why they are coming out on a workday.

"Even if you don't have mental health problems yourself, it starts a conversation I think."

The semicolon has not only made an impact in Worcester, but the tattoo has made a global impression across the world and many celebrities, including Selena Gomez also have the iconic tattoo.