Harry’s Pals is a charity dedicated to addressing a critical and often invisible gap in support for parent carers across the country. Founded in 2022 by Hayley Charlesworth, whose son Harry has profound and complex needs, the charity was born from lived experience and a deep understanding of the emotional toll placed on families—and the devastating consequences when parents are not cared for.

When parents receive the life-shattering news that their child has a life-limiting or life-threatening condition, many are plunged into overwhelming fear, grief, and isolation. Without support, families can reach breaking point. Parents describe feeling abandoned, hopeless, and, in some cases, suicidal. Harry’s Pals exists to intervene before families reach that crisis. Through vital emotional support—including bespoke counselling and therapy, peer support networks, and restorative short breaks—we help prevent family breakdown and reduce the risk of catastrophic outcomes. Our work ensures families are seen, supported, and are able to find coping mechanisms for the road ahead.