Outreach in Action: Hope in Every Conversation

At Harmless, we don’t simply wait for people to come to us – we also run a proactive outreach programme, visiting the communities we serve, spreading messages of hope and ensuring we reach as many people as possible.

While it is not unusual for the organisation to be represented at more than one event in a single day, one recent Saturday saw the team visiting three events, all connected to World Suicide Prevention Day the previous week.

Team members Fiona and Laura were at a blustery Well Fest in South Wigston, Leicestershire. An event that brings the whole community together, the team had some difficult but hopeful conversations with visitors of all ages and spread the word about our vital services. They also met the local mayor, Jasvir Chohan, and her husband, who congratulated us on our work and spoke of their particular interest in the challenges faced by carers supporting loved ones with mental health struggles. Our team made many valuable connections throughout the day, as well as sampling some amazing samosas!

Meanwhile, Erin and Rachel attended the Time Together service of reflection for those affected by suicide. Held in the beautiful Church of St James the Greater, Leicester, it was wonderful to see the community come together to support one another and remember those they had lost. It was a special time of reflection that created space for people to lean on each other and celebrate their loved ones’ lives.

During the service, everyone was invited to place items in remembrance of those they had lost, including rocks (representing pain, but also the permanence of memory and love), candles (the flame representing fragility, possibility and mourning), and a rose for beauty, hope and tenderness. It was particularly moving to hear the personal stories of those who spoke, both at the service and to our team at the stall. Once again, it highlighted the importance of open conversations and the need to check in on those around us.

Finally, Megan and Tom were at the Baton of Hope’s Derby and Derbyshire tour. Part of the largest suicide prevention initiative in the UK, the event brought together a wide range of services dedicated to suicide prevention, alongside a brilliant line-up of music and entertainment. Despite a little rain in the air, the team had some great conversations with people from the local community and it was inspiring to hear about their passion for mental health. We also made new connections with local services, helping to spread the word about our work while learning about the incredible support being delivered by others.

Days like this show the power of outreach – not only in raising awareness of the services Harmless provides but also in building connections, fostering hope and reminding people that no one has to face their struggles alone. By continuing to be present in our communities, we ensure that messages of support, understanding and hope reach further than ever before.