Dan Knowlton的动态

Reflections on the Edinburgh Fringe and Supporting a Worthy Cause I recently returned from another incredible trip to the Edinburgh Fringe. This time, I extended the adventure with a road trip through the Highlands, which included the iconic Harry Potter Steam Train, and then journeyed down to the Lake District. While I had many conversations about what was “good” at the Fringe, I found that “good” isn’t the right word to describe one of the most impactful experiences I had there. I saw Myra, a powerful play about an Irish woman grappling with homelessness and addiction. It was heart-wrenching, and it made me reflect on how close any of us can come to that one “bad” decision or that moment when life pushes us too far. The performance was emotional, funny, thought-provoking, and ultimately inspiring. After the show, I was moved even further by the team from Steps to Hope, who were there handing out information and collecting donations. Although Steps to Hope is based in Edinburgh, their impact reaches across the UK. They’re doing incredible work on a shoestring budget, offering recovery and accommodation services, including a residential treatment program, for those ready to turn their lives around. Remarkably, this vital work is entirely funded by Steps to Hope itself. In today’s economic climate, where every penny is scrutinized, it can be challenging to justify allocating funds to addiction services. Yet, initiatives like this, which offer people a genuine second chance at life, deserve recognition and support. One simple yet powerful way to help is through a ￡2 monthly standing order, which can pay a meal forward for someone in need. That’s less than the price of a coffee. With many of us working from home at least one day a week, we’re already saving on that daily coffee run—why not put those savings to good use? If you’d like to learn more or contribute, here’s their website:- www.stepstohope.co.uk

On Armistice day, not only am I reminded and humbled by those who lost their lives to the wars, but I am reminded of all the children affected by war and the early links that The Mulberry Bush has had with that post war era; supporting and offering therapeutic care for those children who were left extremely traumatised by the impact of those wars. Today with the organisation being in it's 76th year- with the generational ripples continuing through our society from those wars, The Mulberry Bush continues to manage the anxiety, create stability and provide a challenging but nurturing therapeutic experience, that starts to heal the ongoing traumas. As a charity, we continue to support children who have been recently impacted directly or indirectly by war and devastation and closer to home and we continue to support some of the most traumatised children in the country. Our Research, Outreach, Consultancy and Third Space departments seek to reach those externally and we strive to inform, educate and help those working with challenging behaviour and those humans traumatised by their early environments. At the recent TCTC conference that I attended, I was reminded that if organisations like The Mulberry Bush did not exist- what would happen to these children and grown ups? I can only imagine that organisations not willing or capable to contain, think, reflect, make sense or have a sufficient organisational mind to bear the risks that are present through these presenting behaviours and communication, would seek to move on these children and grown ups- in turn contributing to further trauma and confirming feelings of being unlovable, rejected and unwanted. I stand by the ethos of The Mulberry Bush Organisation and hope that we can continue to reach more and more individuals, organisations and countries, to further create enviroments of love and acceptance.

KEEPING MEMORIES OF LOVED ONES ALIVE ?? A case study I wrote for reLOVE photos ?? has been shared by the bereavement charity GriefEncounter. It is encouraging those they support to use photos and videos to keep precious memories of their loved ones alive. Case studies are a wonderful sales tool as they show the benefits of the services offered by your business. ?How could you use case studies to promote your business services? #casestudies #preciousmemories #bereavement https://lnkd.in/etYSQFa8

Hello colleagues. I'm posting here today to advise that somehow; in some paroxysm of submission to peer pressure, over confidence or delusion I have been talked in to participating in Movember this year as part of Team EDQ Infrastructure. And now, in this week the second, the wispy, sparse, heavily salt and peppered weeds littering my upper lip remind me why I generally avoid an active role in this venture. But it's the cause, is it not. The challenges faced by so many men in all our lives across physical and mental health is clearly a growing issue (no pun intended ref above) in our ever more complicated world. As I reflect on the great family members and mates that are and have been such important parts of my life; the fact that many have already walked a stony path of one sort or another, and that at some point many of us will also face a difficult journey along with our families and loved ones, the need to do what we can to support research and initiatives into prevention and treatment of mental health, suicide and cancer seems more pressing this year than ever before to me. So this Movember I commit to entertaining, amusing, distracting, disturbing or confusing all whom I meet with a forlorn but heartfelt attempt at a moustache, in the hope that some may feel inspired to donate to this critical cause - or take up the challenge themselves for similar hope. Below please find my "Mo Space" if you feel inspired to donate, or just spread the word and support others on the same quest. (Any suggestions on a good "man-scara" to help darken and plump up the Mo whiskers would be well received also...)

November marks Movember, a month dedicated to raising awareness and funds for men’s health issues like prostate cancer, mental health, suicide prevention, and community support. This is more than growing a mustache; it’s about creating a movement that encourages men to check in with themselves and others. Throughout the month, I won't just be "attempting" to grow a moustache, I will also be committed to moving a total of 60kms for the 60 men we lose to suicide each hour, of everyday. In addition, i’ll be sharing weekly insights into these critical topics. Men’s mental health is a crucial yet often overlooked issue. We all know someone who may be facing silent battles, and Movember is a great reminder to lean in and simply ask, “How are you doing?” A small conversation can make a big difference. This month, let’s break down those barriers and build a supportive community. It’s a powerful time to stand together, grow together, and make a difference in men’s lives. Follow along this month as I dive deeper into these issues, celebrate the strength of opening up, and build a network of support for all men. If you would like to be apart of making a difference, you can donate to my Movember 'Mo Space' throughout this month. https://lnkd.in/gTgRAVhr

It's World Heart Day and this year, we would like to highlight the important work by the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY-UK). Did you know that every week in the UK, at least 12 young people die from undiagnosed heart conditions? CRY offers subsidised ECG and Echocardiogram screenings for those aged 14-35, as early diagnosis can often detect life-threatening conditions. If your family has been affected by the sudden death of someone under 35, you may also be eligible for NHS screening. ???? A simple ECG test (Electrocardiogram) could be the difference between life and tragedy, and it only takes a few minutes to perform. CRY also provides bereavement support for families, ensuring no one faces this heartache alone. How you can help: 1?? Encourage young people to get screened 2?? Support CRY’s efforts by attending free public events 3?? Spread the word—raising awareness can save lives. Your heart matters, no matter your age. Let's take steps to protect young hearts today. ?? #CardiacRiskInTheYoung #YSCD #HeartHealth #CRY #ECGScreening #PreventionMatters #YouthHealth

Second Chances: Why They Matter and Why Some Need More In the US, it is ‘second chances month’, and we thought it is an ideal time to reflect on the significance of offering opportunities for redemption and growth to people with criminal records. At our charity, we firmly believe that everyone deserves a chance to turn their lives around, and that sometimes, a second chance alone may not suffice. When an individual has served their time and paid their debt to society, they often face numerous obstacles that can hinder their successful reintegration. From societal stigma and discrimination to difficulties in securing employment and housing, the path to rebuilding one's life is full of challenges. By providing ex-offenders with the support, resources, and opportunities they need to start anew, we can help break the cycle of recidivism and empower them to become productive members of society, to overcome the barriers they face and create a brighter future for themselves and their families. However, it's important to recognize that the journey of rehabilitation is not always a straightforward one. Some individuals may require more than just a second chance – they may need a third, fourth, or even fifth chance. Life's challenges can be complex and multifaceted, and setbacks can occur despite one's best efforts. At our charity, we understand that the road to redemption is not a one-size-fits-all experience. We meet each individual where they are, offering personalised support and guidance tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. By extending compassion, understanding, and unwavering belief in their potential, we can help them navigate the ups and downs of their journey and ultimately achieve lasting change.

Do you have one minute? Would you like to support Simon Says Child Bereavement Support at no cost to yourself? Please nominate us for a chance to win ￡1,000 as part of Benefact Group Movement for Good Awards. Simply click on our auto populated card below to nominate us. It is free to nominate and takes less than a minute to complete. If you voted for us last year, please vote for us again as nominations made in 2023 are not carried over. There are six ￡1,000 draws in 2024, so the earlier you nominate, the more chances we have of being drawn. Once you’ve nominated, Simon Says CBS will be included in all the remaining ￡1,000 draws in 2024. The more nominations we receive, the greater our chance of winning so please spread the word with your friends, family and network. For context, ￡1,000 is the equivalent funding we need to support 5 bereaved children / young people living in Hampshire for a whole year. Thank you for your support. #SupportingTheYoungThroughBereavement #MovementForGood [Image description: Thumbnail for Benefact Group, Movement For Good nomination form. Main image is a graphic gif three snowdrop flowers that are swaying and blooming. To the right of the main image is the Simon Says CBS logo which is a hot air balloon amongst clouds. Underneath is text that reads “Please take one minute to nominate us for ￡1,000!” “Movement For Good.” “Benefact Group.”]

Lawyers - Depression, Alcohol, Drugs… and Community? High stress and high stakes, long hours, isolation, vicarious trauma, and constant conflict are just some of the reasons offered for the devastatingly high rate of depression and substance abuse amongst lawyers.? One proven way to effectively combat many of these stressors is to be an active part of meaningful communities.? My personal opinion is this should start with your local bar association (shout out to mine, the Nassau County Bar Association, which, amongst countless other great committees and programs, runs a nationally recognized Lawyer Assistance Program).?At your bar association, you will find professional support, be surrounded by people with similar struggles and interests, have an opportunity to engage in charitable work should you so desire, and network. Of course, there are countless other communities worth exploring.?Some ideas include Rotary, Kiwanis, and Lions Clubs, temples, churches, mosques, and synagogues, sports and/or hobbies.? Communities will provide you with the support, companionship, friendship, and outlet that are an integral part of enjoying a full and productive life, both inside the practice and out.

??Today is #WorldSuicidePreventionDay and we're re-sharing this incredibly valuable interview with Mike Palmer of 3 Dads Walking, three fathers who lost their young daughters to suicide. He was generous enough to share how the dads came together, their daughter's stories, their work with national charity PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide and what we can all do this Suicide Prevention Day. https://bit.ly/3ZcQPBE