Harriet congratulated on her award for courage

A TEENAGER who was badly bullied has been congratulated for winning the Carmarthenshire Radio Child of Courage award.

Harriet Alsop-Bingham, aged 16, suffered cruelty by a group of bullies from the age of 11, who tortured her to the point that she felt completely worthless and started to self-harm.

Since confiding in a youth worker and receiving the help and support she so desperately needed, Harriet has fought to get her life back on track.

Now she has found the courage to share her story with others to raise awareness of mental health issues, and to encourage anyone suffering as she did to seek help.

Harriet, who is a member of Carmarthenshire Youth Council, was recognised for her achievements through winning the Child of Courage award.

She has now been congratulated by leading councillors and officers of Carmarthenshire County Council.

Harriet was invited to County Hall by Chair Cllr Irfon Jones to honour her award. Leader Cllr Emlyn Dole, executive board member for youth services Cllr Glynog Davies and Director of Education and Children’s Services Gareth Morgans were in attendance.

Cllr Dole said: “Harriet is truly a Child of Courage and deserves this honour. She has not only fought to overcome her personal difficulties, but she has also spoken out publicly to try to help others.

“Thanks must also go to our youth services who helped her get the support she needed.

“Harriet has come through unimaginable pain and distress to become the wonderful, brave young woman she is today.

“She deserves this recognition which is testament to her strength of character and courage.”