We would like to congratulate Harry Watkins on receiving a Points of Light award for his work work on championing mental health awareness in memory of his twin brother, Charlie. Harry received a special thanks for the Prime Minister, Theresa May, on World Suicide Prevention Day.
The Charlie Watkins Foundation was set up by Harry and is working with Mid and North East Essex Mind to provide the online messaging service ‘Chat with Charlie’ which is available to all students at the University of Essex. The confidential services aims to support those who are struggling with their mental health and provides signposting by trained volunteers.
The Points of Light award recognises outstanding volunteers and those who are making a positive and inspiring change in their local community.
Mrs May said “The foundation you have set up in memory of your brother Charlie is doing incredibly important work to increase awareness of mental health in young people. Too often the stigma that can surround conversations about mental health stops people from reaching out to get the support they need. The ‘Chat with Charlie’ service you have launched will give more young people the confidence to take that first step to getting the help they need. It is a fantastic tribute to Charlie and you should be very proud of everything you have achieved.”
Harry said “I am extremely honoured to be receiving such an important award. I am hugely grateful for the recognition of work I have done with the Charlie Watkins Foundation. It is our aim at the CWF to support younger people who are suffering with mental health and to make sure nobody is suffering in silence.”
The Points of Light award was developed in partnership with the hugely successful programme in the USA and Harry is the 996th winner of the award here in the UK.
Well done and thank you to Harry Watkins from everyone here at Mid and North East Essex Mind!