Haydon Wick Parish Council Announces CALM as Charity of the Year

Haydon Wick Parish Council has announced that its Charity of the Year for the coming year will be CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), a leading UK charity dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health awareness.

Following a successful year supporting The Kelly Foundation, which provides invaluable local, face-to-face mental health services including counselling, advocacy, wellbeing support and life coaching for adults in Swindon, councillors have voted to continue their commitment to mental wellbeing while broadening the focus.

The decision to support CALM reflects the Parish Council’s desire to build on this strong foundation by addressing suicide prevention, reducing stigma and increasing public awareness. CALM offers a free, confidential and anonymous helpline, alongside live chat and WhatsApp services, available daily from 5pm to midnight for anyone affected by suicide or experiencing suicidal thoughts.

While The Kelly Foundation provides ongoing, practical support within the local community, CALM focuses on crisis intervention and reaching individuals who may not yet feel able to access local services. Its national platform enables residents to access immediate help privately, in a way that suits their needs.

By supporting CALM, Haydon Wick Parish Council aims to deliver a clear and impactful awareness message throughout the year. Information and resources will be shared across community events, noticeboards, newsletters, social media channels and wellbeing initiatives, helping to ensure that support is visible, accessible and inclusive for all residents.

This initiative also recognises that some individuals may be struggling in silence and may find it easier to seek help through anonymous channels rather than traditional face-to-face services. CALM provides a vital option for those individuals, ensuring that no one feels alone in a moment of crisis.

The move aligns closely with the Parish Council’s Community Led Action Plan 2026–2029, supporting its commitment to fostering a kind, connected and caring community.

Chairman to Haydon Wick Parish Council, Councillor Vinay Manro said: “The Kelly Foundation has provided important local, face-to-face mental health support for adults in Swindon, and we are incredibly proud of what we achieved together over the past year, raising £3,900.00 in their support.

“By selecting CALM, we are continuing our focus on mental health while sharpening our attention on suicide prevention and awareness. This partnership will help us reach people who may need immediate, private support while reinforcing our commitment to building a compassionate community.”

Tracey Boxall, Swindon Liaison of the CALM Charity said: “The charity is amazing, giving me hope in my darkest moments after losing my Son to suicide. I feel that I am bringing the people of Swindon together, and we are allowing conversations to flow and use the word suicide.

“Calm may be a national charity, but supporting and working alongside them, I feel they are like family / friends now.”

A spokesperson said: “Haydon Wick Parish Council looks forward to working with residents, community groups and partners throughout the year to raise awareness and funds for CALM, while continuing to champion mental wellbeing across the Parish.”