PHX Ireland Announces Charity Partnership with HUGG, Ireland’s National Suicide Bereavement Charity

PHX Ireland, Ireland's leading fully integrated healthcare provider, today announced a two-year charity partnership with HUGG, the national suicide bereavement charity. 

This partnership aligns with PHX Ireland purpose, to make a real, lasting difference to our customers and communities and will extend across PHX Ireland's subsidiaries: United Drug, Ireland's leading pharmaceutical wholesaler and distributor; McCabes Pharmacy, Ireland's largest pharmacy retail brand with 110 pharmacies nationwide; and TCP Homecare, innovators in clinical home nursing services and direct-to-patient delivery solutions.

Founded in 2017 by Fiona Tuomey after the devastating death by suicide of her 11-year-old daughter Milly, HUGG was created to ensure that no one bereaved by suicide would have to face their grief alone. With around 500 suicides* recorded in Ireland each year—and research showing that every suicide can impact up to 135 people — more than 60,000 individuals may be affected annually and in need of postvention support.

Postvention refers to activities that reduce risk and promote healing for those impacted by suicide. By supporting people who have lost a loved one to suicide, HUGG plays a vital role in reducing the increased risk of suicidal ideation among the bereaved -estimated to be ten times higher than in the general population.

Speaking about the partnership CEO of PHX Ireland Paul Reilly said "We are delighted to announce our partnership with HUGG for the next two years. PHX Ireland prioritises the health and wellbeing of communities making the partnership a natural collaboration. Together with HUGG, we look forward to fostering positive change and providing essential resources to those in need. We are very excited to develop this partnership, creating opportunities for our teammates, colleagues and customers to support a very deserving charity.”

HUGG’s CEO Fiona Tuomey added "We are delighted to be chosen as charity partner of PHX Ireland and look forward to working across the organisation to further HUGG's vision of bringing hope and a pathway to healing for people who are bereaved by suicide. Suicide grief is different to other types of losses and needs unique support. We hope that through this partnership we can reach more people around Ireland who are in need of support."

HUGG’s services include a telephone support line, suicide bereavement support groups, information on grief after suicide, and ongoing research and advocacy. HUGG also hosts public events and webinars including its annual remembrance event, Say Their Name and Finding Hope & Healing After Suicide. These events provide compassionate support and connection. A new initiative from HUGG is the rollout of Suicide Bereavement Pop-up Cafés, beginning in Kerry and Waterford in April.

PHX employees will have the opportunity to participate in a Salary Donation Scheme, allowing them to contribute any amount from their payroll to HUGG. These donations will then be doubled by PHX Ireland, showcasing the company’s strong commitment to supporting impactful causes. 

Further information on HUGG and the support they provide can be found at www.HUGG.ie