Nottingham Racecourse has announced its first-ever ‘Charity of the Year’ for 2025, forming a partnership with Harmless, a Nottingham-based organisation dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health support. This collaboration aims to extend awareness, encourage open conversations, and raise crucial funds to support the organisation’s life-saving work.
Harmless has been at the forefront of mental health advocacy, offering essential services and educational programs for individuals facing crises. By selecting a charity with such a profound impact, Nottingham Racecourse is reinforcing its commitment to addressing mental health challenges and fostering a more supportive community. The initiative is expected to bring these critical issues to a wider audience, helping to combat the stigma surrounding mental health concerns.
The importance of this cause is underscored by concerning statistics. Between 2020 and 2022, Nottingham recorded 291 suicides, with men being nearly four times more at risk than women. Nationally, suicide rates have surged, reaching a record high in recent years, with over 6,000 cases reported in England and Wales in 2023. Suicide remains the leading cause of death for individuals aged 5 to 34, and a significant number of teenagers with mental health disorders have engaged in self-harm or attempted suicide. These figures highlight the urgent need for intervention and accessible support services.
Through the partnership, Nottingham Racecourse and Harmless will collaborate on fundraising events and awareness campaigns throughout the year. These efforts will play a vital role in fostering an environment where mental health discussions are normalized and support is readily available to those in need. By leveraging the racecourse’s platform and reach, the initiative aims to educate the public, promote early intervention, and ultimately save lives.
Caroline Harroe, CEO of Harmless, expressed her gratitude for this recognition, emphasizing the profound impact that partnerships like this can have on communities. She highlighted the importance of breaking down stigmas and ensuring that every effort made contributes to creating a society that prioritizes mental well-being. The support from Nottingham Racecourse is a testament to the significance of this mission and the collective responsibility to address mental health challenges effectively.
Individuals and businesses interested in supporting this initiative can find more details on how to get involved by visiting the official websites of Nottingham Racecourse and Harmless. As the new season at Nottingham Racecourse commences next month, featuring the launch of £9 Racedays on April 9th, this partnership sets the stage for a year dedicated to meaningful change and greater community involvement.
