Young sons of firefighter who died after Jenners blaze help to support other kids
The young sons of a firefighter who tragically lost his life after battling a blaze at the former Jenners building in Edinburgh are now stepping up to help others grappling with loss. Barry Martin, aged 38, was among the firefighters who responded to the fire at the former department store on Princes Street on January 23, 2023. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries four days later in the hospital.
In memory of Barry Martin, his family has established the Barry Martin Foundation. His twin boys, Oliver and Daniel, have taken on the initiative to create a project aimed at supporting young children who have experienced the loss of a parent or carer, drawing from their own personal experiences. The boys have named the program “Barry the Brave” and it is designed to provide comfort and assistance to children dealing with grief.
Oliver and Daniel, who both have a talent for writing, are developing a programme led by children and their pets that aims to help youngsters cope with the loss of a loved one. Shelley Martin, Barry’s wife and the boys’ mother, expressed her pride in their efforts, highlighting their determination to support peers who are navigating similar challenges.
Following the unveiling of a memorial bench in July, which offered access to online resources for support, the family intends to install more benches across Scotland. The benches, known as “Barry’s Benches,” are part of a not-for-profit community project aimed at providing support and resources to those in need. The initiative has garnered significant support and donations, encouraging the family to expand the project further.
The Martins have already made progress in siting five benches within a few months, with plans to increase this number significantly by the end of 2025. They are working in collaboration with councils and private landowners to identify suitable locations for the benches across various parts of Scotland.
In summary, the Martin family’s dedication to helping others cope with loss is a touching tribute to Barry Martin’s memory. Through their innovative approaches and community initiatives, they are making a meaningful impact by supporting those in need and spreading positivity in the face of adversity.