Unravelling the Complex Journey of Suicide Bereavement
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) Grappling with the loss of a loved one is always poignant, yet when that loss is a result of suicide, the severance amplifies the pain, mystery and guilt associated. Suicide bereavement is inherently complex, entwined with a gamut of emotions that can be challenging to interpret and process. Psychologist Holly […]
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 […]
MHFA and the Term ‘First Aider’ – Why This is Problematic
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) The term ‘first aider’ is typically associated with someone who is trained to provide initial assistance to someone who is injured or sick. However, in recent years the term has also been used to describe people who are trained to provide initial support to someone who is experiencing a mental […]
Winter Ball 2024 – Tickets Now Available!
As we move into autumn, it’s time for the Harmless team to turn its attention to our annual celebration event in November. Always a memorable occasion, the Winter Ball offers a wonderful opportunity for staff, supporters, stakeholders and friends to come together, reflect upon the year and celebrate our achievements together. As ever, the evening […]
Why Research is at the Heart of Harmless: A Commitment to Saving Lives
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) At Harmless, our mission to prevent self harm and suicide is fuelled by a deep-rooted belief in the power of knowledge. We know that understanding the complex landscape of these issues is the first step towards effective prevention and support. That’s why we’ve invested in a dedicated internal research team […]
Suicide Bereavement Quality Standards and Their Relevance
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) The Support After Suicide Partnership (SASP) Quality Standards are a set of guidelines that define the minimum standards of service that should be provided to people bereaved by suicide in the UK. The standards were developed by a working group of experts in suicide bereavement, and they were launched in […]
The Purdah Period: A Time of Restraint
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) When a General Election is called, the government enters a period often referred to as ‘purdah’ or ‘pre-election period’. This typically begins several weeks before the election date and lasts until a new government is formed. During purdah, the government observes certain restrictions on its activities to ensure fairness and […]
Supporting People Through Suicide Bereavement and Unimaginable Loss
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) Supporting those who are bereaved by suicide is one of the most challenging and rewarding jobs a person can have. It is a privilege to be able to walk alongside someone during one of the darkest times in their life, and to help them to find their way forward. But […]
The Weight of Guilt and Unresolved Emotions in Suicide Bereavement
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) The experience of losing a loved one to suicide often brings a tumultuous wave of emotions, with guilt and a sense of unresolved feelings being among the most agonising. These emotions are complex, multifaceted and can profoundly affect the mourning process. In the aftermath of a suicide, guilt tends to […]
Movement for Mental Health: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Accessible Options
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) Mental Health Awareness Week is a vital reminder that mental well-being is just as important as physical health. This year’s theme, ‘Movement for Mental Health’, highlights the powerful connection between physical activity and mental well-being. While movement can be a fantastic tool for managing stress, anxiety, and depression, it’s crucial […]