CUMBRIA, UK – In a heartfelt tribute to the memory of a former Girl Guide, a new badge designed to foster discussions about mental health has been introduced. The “Twinkle for Heather” challenge badge is named after Heather Porter, one of the organization’s young leaders hailing from Dalton in Cumbria, who tragically took her own life in April 2022. In response to this loss, the Girlguiding community in Cumbria sought a way to commemorate Heather and, simultaneously, support suicide prevention efforts.
In an event held at a village hall in South Cumbria, guides and young leaders from various parts of the county gathered to explore the activities that would be included in this special badge.
The “Twinkle for Heather” challenge badge embodies a heartfelt endeavor by the Girlguiding community to address the critical issue of mental health among young people. It not only serves as a tribute to Heather Porter but also functions as a vehicle to stimulate conversations around mental health and suicide prevention techniques.
This initiative aligns with the increasing recognition of the importance of open dialogues about mental health in our communities. By encouraging young people to discuss these critical topics, the badge seeks to promote greater awareness and understanding, fostering a more supportive and empathetic environment for those facing mental health challenges.
The activities associated with the badge will serve as practical tools to engage young people and guide them through discussions about mental health, offering valuable insights and resources for those who may be in need. In this way, the “Twinkle for Heather” challenge badge stands as a lasting tribute to a life lost too soon, while also contributing to a brighter and more compassionate future for young people in Cumbria.
