A recently established Community Interest Company, HelloHope, has joined forces with Leeds-based Navigatr in a crucial mental health initiative.
Under the backing of Leeds City Council, the partnership aims to offer lifesaving training programmes, making them recognisable through digital badges.
HelloHope’s Mission and Launch
In May, Ellie MacDonald launched HelloHope to make preventive mental health training accessible to more people. The aim is to equip individuals with the skills to identify and assist those in crisis.
Partnering with Navigatr allows HelloHope to issue digital badges, validating the skills of training participants and spreading their vital message further.
Support from Leeds Learning City
Leeds Learning City, an initiative from Leeds City Council, supports this collaboration. The scheme unites multiple organisations dedicated to fostering lifelong learning and skill development throughout Leeds.
Key partners include Ahead Partnerships, Leeds Learning Alliance, and The Wren Bakery, all contributing to this comprehensive educational effort.
Digital Badges: Recognising Lifesaving Skills
The introduction of digital badges by Navigatr offers formal recognition of the skills attained through HelloHope’s programmes.
Participants gain accredited credentials, enhancing their ability to support mental health crisis interventions, a critical aspect of the initiative.
Empowering the Community
The collaborative effort aims to provide educational and training opportunities to all residents and employees across Leeds.
These opportunities help validate skills and achievements in informal settings, promoting a culture of learning and recognition.
Voices from the Partnership
Ellie MacDonald emphasised the importance of preventive training, stating, “HelloHope delivers vital yet simple lifesaving training to adults as preventative methods.”
Tim Riches, Executive Founder of Navigatr, said, “We aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to provide vital support to those in crisis.”
Endorsed by Leeds City Council
Dawn Hall, Leeds City Council project lead, expressed her enthusiasm, “I’m thrilled to support initiatives like Navigatr’s collaboration with HelloHope in certifying mental health and suicide prevention first aid courses.”
Such backing underscores the Council’s commitment to promoting mental health awareness and building a supportive community in Leeds.
Looking Ahead
This partnership is seen as a significant step towards a more compassionate and resilient society.
Through continuous collaboration, the project aims to reach more people, providing them with essential mental health training and support.
The Leeds City Council-supported initiative marks a critical move towards enhancing mental health education and support in the community.
By offering recognised training programmes, HelloHope and Navigatr are leading the way in building a safer and more informed society.
