10/10/2026
š WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY š
Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.
At Blades Down, we understand the importance of lived experience. It shapes how we deliver our projects and is one of the most powerful tools we have in raising awareness, educating others and creating meaningful change.
But for us, lived experience isn't just a phrase. It's personal. It's the reason Blades Down exists.
Our founder, Danni, has struggled with PTSD and poor mental health since witnessing the murder of Lloyd Velasquez in 2024. Blades Down was born from that experience and continues to work towards creating a lasting legacy for Lloyd, his son, his mum and his family.
Some of our young volunteers were also left with lasting trauma after witnessing the aftermath of that incident. For some, their main support came from their parents and families, who helped them navigate the difficult emotions and experiences they were left with.
Sadly, there are times when the services that are supposed to support young people fail to provide the appropriate care they need beyond the support of their families. The impact doesn't stop with the individual; it can create a ripple effect throughout their families, too.
Lloyd's family and friends continue to live with the heartbreak of losing someone they love, alongside the ongoing mental health struggles that can follow such a devastating loss. No family should have to navigate that pain.
This is why lived experience matters so much to us. It gives us an understanding that cannot always be taught from a textbook. It helps us recognise the signs that someone might be struggling, understand the importance of feeling heard and create projects that genuinely reflect the needs of the people we support.
People's lived experiences are one of our most powerful tools for improving mental health. By listening to those most at risk and acting on what they tell us, we can help create a mentally healthier society. Real experiences should shape not only the support we provide in our communities but also the research, policies and decisions that affect people's lives.
Every day, through Blades Down, we support young people who may be struggling with their own experiences. We provide them with a safe space where they can express their feelings, talk to trusted adults and connect with their peers without fear of judgement. We want them to know that their voices matter, their feelings are valid and they don't have to pretend to be okay.
Lived experience should also shape how mental health support is provided. People need to be listened to, believed and given the right support at the right time, not left to struggle until things become unbearable.
So, this World Mental Health Day, I encourage you to check in on your friends, family and colleagues. Really check in. Sometimes, the people struggling the most are the ones wearing the happiest smile on their face.
You don't always know what someone is carrying behind closed doors. A conversation, a little understanding or simply being there can make more of a difference than you realise.
For us, Blades Down will always be about more than knife crime prevention. It's about the people, the families, the trauma, the lives changed and the futures we can still protect.
Real voices. Real experiences. Real change.
For Lloyd. For his family. For our young people. And for everyone who deserves to be heard. š
