Gerry Murphy

Gerard (Gerry) was born in 1959 in Glasgow. His early life was troubled as he fought alcohol and drug addiction and engaged in anti-social behaviour. In 1995, following rehabilitation, he volunteered with Fairbridge (now part of The Prince's Trust) and with their support changed his life. 

He was taught to read and write at 35 years old, leading to the award of a diploma in Clinical & Crisis Counselling.  For the past 23 years Gerry has worked tirelessly to help others overcome their own personal challenges as both a counsellor and motivational speaker. He works as a tutor with the Scottish Recovery Consortium and regularly assists local authorities, healthcare partnerships, outreach organisations, HM Prisons service and academic institutions as a consultant. 

In addition to his counselling work, Gerry is currently developing and curating a peer support video channel for Glasgow based Frog Systems where people can share their stories and experiences for the betterment of others in their communities.

Lorraine Buchanan

Born in 1963, Lorraine is a mother of two and grand-mother of one.

In 2001, Lorraine lost her husband Ian to alcoholism. The pain of his suffering and the failure of the traditional support systems designed to help him acted as a catalyst for Lorraine to take action. 

In 2007, Lorraine started Just Like Us a drop in Centre in Milton, Glasgow with Gerry Murphy. The Centre helps people transform their lives by example. They originally operated from dedicated premises at Colston Milton Parish Church, and recently relocated to The Lovemilton office based at Scaraway Drive, Milton.  Offering a spiritual based skills programme, delivered through peer group and one-to-one sessions, for adults of all ages who are suffering from mental health and addiction issues. Thereafter, support is available on an ongoing basis, tailored to meet individual needs.

Hundreds of people from Milton and other parts of Glasgow have been supported through the group work since Just Like Us was established.