The Weight of Responsibility: Voting in a Time of Crisis

By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO)

At Harmless, we dedicate ourselves to supporting the mental health of our communities. It’s a responsibility we take deeply seriously, especially in these turbulent times.

The current political climate is undeniably charged. Tomorrow’s general election looms large, and the anxieties it brings are palpable – for the public, for our beneficiaries, and yes, even for us, those working tirelessly in the mental health sector.

As CEO of Harmless, I face a unique challenge: the weight of responsibility extends beyond just our clients. We’re also employers, responsible for the well-being of a dedicated staff facing increasingly difficult circumstances.

The decimation of mental health services in recent years is a stark reality. It’s a constant battle to deliver the care our communities desperately need, with resources stretched thin. This, coupled with the ongoing financial crisis, creates a constant undercurrent of anxiety. How can we continue to offer the support needed when the very foundation upon which we operate feels shaky?

This week’s general election further amplifies this uncertainty. While it’s not my place to endorse any particular political party, I can’t help but worry about the potential impact of a changing political landscape on mental health services. Will there be an understanding of the critical role we play? Will there be investment to strengthen, not dismantle, the already strained safety net?

This internal conflict – the desire for change intertwined with the fear of the unknown – is a burden many of us in the non-profit sector carry.

But amidst the anxieties, there’s also a flicker of hope. The very fact that mental health is a conversation starter, a topic on the political agenda, is a positive step forward. Perhaps, just perhaps, the election will bring a renewed commitment to supporting mental well-being across the country.

That’s why voting, even in the face of uncertainty, is crucial. It’s a chance to voice your concerns, to advocate for the future of mental health services, and to ensure that those in power understand the gravity of the situation.

This isn’t just about politics, it’s about people. It’s about the countless individuals who rely on organisations like Harmless for support. It’s about the dedicated staff who are the backbone of our work.

So, I urge everyone to take the time to cast their vote. Let your voice be heard. Because in the end, a healthy democracy begins with a healthy population, and that starts with prioritising mental well-being. Together, we can create a future where mental health services are not a luxury, but a right accessible to all.