The Relationship Between Chronic Pain, Disability and Suicide
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) The relationship between chronic pain, disability and suicide is a complex one, but it is important to have a better understanding of the issue. Chronic pain is a condition that lasts for more than three months and can be caused by a variety of factors, such as injury, illness or […]
The Academy at Harmless: A Pillar of Excellence in Self-Harm and Suicide Prevention
In the fight against self harm and suicide, the Academy at Harmless stands as a beacon of hope and a cornerstone of our work as a Centre of Excellence. Its comprehensive training programmes empower individuals and organisations to address these complex issues with sensitivity, understanding and effectiveness. A Vital Link in the Chain of PreventionThe […]
The Academy at Harmless and the Health Education England Framework
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) The Health Education England (HEE) Framework for training and education around self harm and suicide is a set of standards that define the minimum level of training and education that healthcare professionals should receive in order to effectively support people who are self harming or at risk of suicide. The […]
LGBTQIA+ History Month: The History of Asexuality
By Laura Hughes (Suicide Crisis Service Lead) ‘Asexual’ refers to individuals who experience little to no sexual attraction towards people of any gender. Asexuality is a real and valid sexual orientation, with 1-2% of the UK population identifying as asexual, despite not being listed as a sexual orientation within UK law. Many people have not […]
Rising Pressures on Self Harm and Suicide Prevention Services Across the UK
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) IntroductionSelf harm and suicide are major public health concerns in the UK. In 2021, there were 6,380 suicides registered in England and Wales, and an estimated 100,000 people were admitted to hospital as a result of self harm. Self harm is particularly common among young people, with one in eight […]
Reframing Mental Health Support for BAME Communities in the UK
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) The UK mental health system, despite some improvements over the years, has been repeatedly critiqued for a one-size-fits-all approach that seemingly marginalises racial and ethnic minority groups, particularly the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) individuals. Known Barriers: 1. Institutional RacismA 2018 independent review of the Mental Health Act revealed […]
Help and Support for Those Bereaved by Suicide in the UK
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) Suicide bereavement is the loss of a loved one to suicide. It is a devastating experience that can have a profound impact on those left behind. In the UK, there is a growing recognition of the need to provide support for those bereaved by suicide and a number of initiatives […]
Bespoke Self Harm & Suicide Prevention training across Nottingham & Nottinghamshire
Harmless has been commissioned as part of the Wave 4 Suicide Prevention programme to deliver fully funded, self harm and suicide prevention training. Through these bespoke training sessions designed for professionals from various sectors and organisations, our training will equip and empower you to make a real difference in the lives of individuals who may […]
Christmas Poetry
Ask Twice by Caroline HarroeIn a world of swift “I’m fines” hastily spoken,Lies a truth untold, a sign that we’re broken.We nod and smile, a masquerade so hollow,But do you see the pain that we artfully swallow? So I ask you once, “Are you doing okay?”Your lips curve a smile; you say, “I’m fine” today.Yet […]
Heading into the New Year: Considerations for Suicide Prevention in the UK
By Caroline Harroe (Harmless CEO) As we bid farewell to 2023 and embrace the new year, suicide prevention services in the UK face a crucial time. With the holiday season often exacerbating feelings of loneliness, isolation and despair, the transition into January can be particularly challenging for those struggling with mental health difficulties. Addressing the […]