Founders are often imagined as bold, assertive figures who command a room. But those who knew Verity Murricane understand that she led in a very different way. Verity held a quiet authority – calm, steady, and never confrontational. In a world full of noise, she spoke softly, and because of that, people listened more deeply.
A Mission Rooted in Care
Verity didn’t establish Eight Bells for recognition or status. She built it for one reason: the members. This wasn’t a title to her. It was her purpose.
Every choice she made and every meeting she attended came from a single guiding question: “How does this help the members?” She knew that true mental health support isn’t about ticking boxes, it’s about compassion, community, and creating a space where people feel they belong.
A Legacy of Strength
The early days of Eight Bells weren’t easy. There were moments where survival felt uncertain. But Verity’s steady determination ensured the charity didn’t just stay standing; it grew into the strong, vibrant community we know today.
Verity created a place where support is shared, not divided; where titles don’t matter; where everyone is equal. She guided us rather than led us, and that gentle approach shaped the culture we continue to cherish.
A Vision That Lives On
Today, Eight Bells supports more people than ever, and Verity’s vision is woven into every part of it. Though she may no longer greet us with her calm presence or sit with us in meetings, her influence remains at the heart of everything we do.
To the “Eight Bells family,” we owe Verity a debt of gratitude we can never truly repay. But we can honour her by continuing the work exactly as she did: with a quiet heart, a calm spirit, and an unwavering focus on the people who need us most.
Verity, you will be deeply missed. Your spirit, your vision, and your quiet leadership will continue to live on in every person who finds comfort, connection, and hope within the charity you built with such love.
If you would like to honour Verity’s memory and help continue the work she was so passionate about, donations to Eight Bells go directly towards supporting our members and sustaining the community she created. You can donate via Justgiving here 👉 https://www.justgiving.com/charity/eightbellsnewbury