Battle Scars is a small Leeds charity (no 1177020) supporting people of all ages and genders who self-harm as well as the people who support them (family, friends and professionals) with a large selection of easy-to-access peer support services.
We’re unique because we are 100% survivor-led and run, have no waiting lists, postcode or time limits. Our definition of self-harm is any harm done to the body or mind, internal or external, with short or long-term effect (includes eating disorders).
We run face-to-face support groups for over 16s, a group for family and friends, similar virtual groups for over 18s, a phone service, online support, provide a wide range of resources, train hundreds of professionals every year in how to support people who self-harm and work closely with organisations from all sectors. Our vision is to make sure nobody struggling with self-harm has to fight alone and to break down the stigma surrounding it.
After many years the Battle Scars’ dream to acquire premises came true this summer with the opening of the new Onward Mental Health & Wellbeing Hub in the Millshaw Estate in South Leeds (Onward House, Millshaw Park Way, LS11 0LS).
Thanks to our very generous landlords, MunroeK, support from local businesses, the NHS and a lot of hard work from our staff and volunteers, the renovation and redecoration work is almost complete. We have created a warm, safe, welcoming space for everyone and currently sublet parts of the building to Memec (Middle Eastern & Mediterranean Community) and the Leeds Mental Wellbeing Service.
We have a few more rooms and a small number of hot desks available for long-term rent with 2 meeting rooms and a large event room available for day/half-day hire at incredible prices. All profits go back into our services. We wish to see Onward House being used by mental health and wellbeing services, organisations and supporters, to become the vibrant hub we envisage.
If you’re interested in any of our services or interested in the hub’s rooms for hire/rent, please check our website www.battle-scars.org.uk or contact us info@battle-scars.org.uk
If you wish to attend our groups but are too anxious, you are welcome to arrange a visit on a different day or bring a friend, family member or support worker with you. We also support a large number of people who are neurodivergent and members of the LGBT+ community. Everyone is welcome.
One of our volunteers recently wrote:
“I began my journey with Battle Scars in 2018 becoming a regular weekly service user in 2020 as the country went into lockdown. Prior to this I had no understanding or knowledge about my self- harm; it was just something I did, a secret I kept because I thought I was alone.
“Fast forward to 2024, I now contribute as a volunteer for Battle Scars and hold this charity deep in my heart as it is more than a safe place to be; it is my family. I truly never had felt more acceptance, support and love than I have felt through involvement with Battle Scars. Onward Mental Health Hub and anywhere Battle Scars are is truly an amazing and nurturing environment.”
This post was written by Jenny Groves
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