David Hardie

It is with great sadness that we announce David Hardie, our much loved Trustee and Founder, passed away peacefully on Sunday 24th January 2021 after a short illness. He was at home with his son and daughter.

Establishing Mental Health Resource

David, along with a small group of Tunbridge Wells residents, came together in the 1980s, to try to find a solution to a very clear lack of mental health services in their area. Their concern was that those suffering with mental illness and/or a mental health crisis did not have access to the help and support they needed, at their most vulnerable time. Their vision was to build a new mental health resource centre, a safe and caring environment for people suffering from mental ill health, to increase their self-confidence and feel a full and valued member of society.

After initially establishing 'Tunbridge Wells Mental Health Residential', (a residential centre for people suffering mental ill health based in Southborough), the charity then became known as 'Tunbridge Wells Mental Health Resource' in 1993 and David remained on on the Board of Directors right up until his death. He offered a huge amount of hands-on support, not only attending regular Board meetings and fundraising events, but visiting the team and always makes a point of thanking staff. 

David's Impact

David took great pride in knowing that his charity has helped countless people with mental health issues over the years. He always talked about our services as being like putting arms of support around those who needed it and he particularly advocated for those who were most vulnerable. 

In 2018, he was awarded Tunbridge Wells Borough Council's Love Where We Live 'Special Recognition Award' in the 'Love Where we Live' awards for his commitment to Mental Health Resource since it's inception and to £thank him for his ongoing effort in providing a safe place for Tunbridge Wells residents who are experiencing mental health illness".

He had even set up another local charity, Mental Health Residential, which provides residential care and support for adults with mental health issues, which is now part of Crossways Community.

David achieved so much for so many people. He will be sorely missed but always remembered.