Nottingham Racecourse names Harmless as its first Charity of the Year for 2025

Nottingham Racecourse on Monday announced a partnership with Harmless by naming the user-led organisation as its inaugural ‘Charity of the Year’ for 2025.

Harmless, which has a base in the Nottingham, has been at the forefront of suicide prevention and mental health support, providing life-saving services and vital education to those in need. This partnership will help amplify their message and extend their reach within Nottingham and beyond.

Choosing to support a charity that holds deep significance, Nottingham Racecourse aims to drive awareness, promote conversation and provide crucial funds in support of suicide prevention and mental health in the community.

The statistics surrounding suicide highlight the critical need for intervention and support. Between 2020 and 2022, there were 291 deaths by suicide in Nottingham, with males being nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than females. Nationally, suicide rates have reached their highest levels in decades with over 6,000 registered suicides in England and Wales in 2023. Suicide remains the leading cause of death for individuals aged 5 to 34, and nearly half of 17 to 19-year-olds with a mental health disorder have self-harmed or attempted suicide.

Through this partnership, Nottingham Racecourse and Harmless will work together on fundraising initiatives and awareness campaigns throughout the year.

Caroline Harroe, CEO of Harmless, said: “We are truly honoured to be chosen as Nottingham Racecourse’s Charity of the Year for 2025. Mental health and suicide prevention touch every community, and by joining forces, we can foster understanding, conversation and ultimately save lives.

“This partnership highlights the importance of bringing these critical issues to the forefront and we are dedicated to ensuring that every discussion and event can make a difference. Together, we can break down the barriers of stigma and create a society that values mental wellness and support for all.

“Our heartfelt thanks go to Nottingham Racecourse for believing in this mission.”

For further information on how to get involved or support this partnership, please visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/nottingham or https://harmless.org.uk/

The new season at Nottingham Racecourse gets underway next month with the launch of £9 Racedays on Wednesday 9th April