As part of our continuing Mental Health Awareness Week series of podcasts, Ben welcomes Sherry Adams, CEO Of Kelly’s Heroes. A local charity that provides mental health awareness training and vital services for those suffering from poor mental health.
Kelly’s Heroes Legacy
The charity was started after Kelly, aged 24, ended her own life in December 2018. Her family, parents John and Rachel and sister Amy, began the charity in 2020 to create a legacy for her, to help those struggling with suicidal thoughts and poor mental health. Sherry became CEO of the charity in late 2020, using her decade of experience in the charity sector to help deliver services and develop them further.
Four years later, the charity has provided immeasurable help to people around Northamptonshire. Highlights include a gruelling 2022 fundraising cycle from New York to San Francisco, expanding the number of staff to over 30, and providing a consistently prompt service to 1000s of people.
Anyone referred to Kelly’s Heroes will receive an acknowledgment within a day. Letting them know what will happen next, a one-hour assessment within days and access to counselling within seven days if they need it. As well as live chat services which give people someone to talk to when times are hard.
A Vital Lifeline
With waiting lists for NHS mental health services often stretching into the months, charities like Kelly’s Heroes provide a vital lifeline to those suffering with suicidal thoughts. Sherry says that referral numbers are increasing even week on week, and that while people are talking about it a lot more, this increased visibility has not led to increased funding.
She recounts a story of receiving money for a service supporting families bereaved by suicide. A programme that lasted 18 months and helped over 1000 families, only to not have its funding renewed.
Sherry emphasises the importance of fundraising, and how generous donations allow them to continue providing these vital services. They keep operating costs low, with every member of staff working from home. Therefore, those who donate can be sure their money is paying for often lifesaving services.
Watch the full episode here, or listen to the episode here:
