Be Free Campaign Provides Vital Support Following Liverpool FC Parade Incident

In the aftermath of a tragic incident during the Liverpool FC victory parade on May 26, 2023, which left over 100 individuals injured, mental health professionals have rallied to support those affected. The Be Free Campaign, a mental health charity focused on youth support, reported a significant response from young people seeking help following the event. The incident, where a car crashed into the crowd, raised urgent concerns about the psychological impact on attendees, particularly children and adolescents.

The Be Free Campaign, under the direction of Danika Leahey, quickly mobilized its resources, providing free counseling services within three hours of the incident. "We were encouraged to see the number of young people coming forward, especially during half-term when their usual support networks were unavailable," stated Leahey, who serves as the director of operations at the charity.

The organization specifically caters to individuals aged 11 to 25, offering 90-minute counseling sessions designed to address both immediate trauma and long-term coping strategies. According to Leahey, many young attendees experienced unexpected physical symptoms, such as panic attacks and shortness of breath, as the psychological effects of witnessing a traumatic event began to manifest.

"When you see something traumatic firsthand, it can have a profound impact, especially on younger individuals," Leahey explained. The sessions not only focused on the mental well-being of the youth but also included support for parents and caregivers, emphasizing the importance of self-care for those who support others in distress.

The Be Free Campaign, which has previously set up response hubs following incidents such as the Southport riots in 2022, benefited from established protocols that allowed for a swift response to the parade incident. "Having a blueprint based on our past experiences enabled us to act quickly and efficiently," Leahey noted, highlighting the importance of being prepared for emergencies.

Despite their proactive support, Leahey expressed concern over the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly the narrative that only physically injured individuals require assistance. "The emotional and psychological pain is just as real and valid," she stated. The campaign aims to foster an environment where young people feel comfortable discussing their feelings and accessing necessary support.

The immediate and long-term psychological effects of such traumatic events are supported by research. A study conducted by Dr. Emily Thompson, a clinical psychologist at the University of Liverpool, indicates that exposure to traumatic events can lead to anxiety disorders and other mental health issues if left unaddressed. "It’s crucial that we provide support not just for the injured but for all those who witnessed or were affected by the event," Dr. Thompson emphasized in her 2023 report published in the Journal of Psychosocial Research.

As the Be Free Campaign continues its work, it underscores a broader need for mental health resources in the community, particularly for youth who may be more vulnerable in the wake of traumatic events. The organization remains committed to ensuring that those affected can find the support they need to navigate their emotional challenges. As community leaders and mental health professionals assess the aftermath of the parade incident, the importance of accessible mental health resources has never been more apparent.