Putting the Headlight on suicide prevention project at the North East Cricket Series

The 2026 North East Cricket Series might have ended on the field in a tied series, but off the field, all participants joined in the fundraising efforts for the local Headlight Project charity.

The North-East of England has one of the highest suicide rates in the country.  Founded in memory of Russ Devereux, the Headlight Project aims to reduce the number of deaths by suicide in the Tees Valley area through therapy for those bereaved by suicide and preventative education and training.

Grief from suicide is complex, and those bereaved are at higher risk of dying by suicide themselves. The Headlight Project support those bereaved by suicide through specialist 1-2-1 counselling, play therapy for children, various trauma therapies and support groups.

Suicide is a community problem, and everyone can help. Through awareness presentations & campaigns, evidence-based training, education & workshops, The Headlight Project aim to provide our local community with the knowledge and skills to help reduce the number of deaths by suicide.

Dr Harper, Billingham Synthonia Cricket Club Committee member, was humbled by the donation, adding, “Russ’ charity The Headlight Project is special to all of the members.  His charity is doing great work to support suicide prevention and help those with bereavement in our local community.  If you host them, you would know it is no surprise that the North East Cricket Series, and our friends at the Army Cricket Association, have got behind our charity fundraising as it is what they do, but it does not make it any less special to know while they played out such a thrilling series, Russ’ charity was benefiting as well”.

John D Holland, Operations Director at The North East Cricket Series added “On behalf of all of the participants in the NECS, we are delighted to have supported Billingham Synthonia CC’s fundraising for The Headlight Project.  We have all learned a considerable amount about the charity's excellent work, the signs to look out for in those we meet who need help, and we wish the charity the very best for their projects”.

For more information about their work, or to donate to The Headlight Project, please visit www.headlightproject.org/