We're proud to announce that Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) will be the official lead charity partner for The Great Escape 2026.

CALM is a leading suicide prevention charity, uniting people and communities to take a stand against suicide ? the single biggest killer of men under 50 and the cause of 125 lives lost every week across the UK. Their vital work helps save lives, offering frontline support and driving awareness through powerful campaigns and cultural partnerships.

With The Great Escape 2026 taking place during Mental Health Awareness Week (13-16 May 2026), this partnership feels more important than ever. Across the festival and conference, CALM will have a visible presence ? from venue takeovers and panel discussions to fundraising opportunities and awareness activations. Ticket buyers will also be able to make a donation to CALM when purchasing festival and FIRST FIFTY tickets.

Simon Gunning, CEO of CALM, says:
"Music is part of the DNA of CALM - right from the time Tony Wilson helped us launch. We use it to reach more people who need us. To make some noise about suicide and help save lives. That's why it's so brilliant to be The Great Escape's lead charity partner. You'll see us down the front. On the walls of every venue. Speaking on the panels. Making sure people know that if they're struggling, we're here for them. And with the festival taking place during Mental Health Awareness Week in 2026, it seems the perfect time to get that message out there."

By partnering with CALM, The Great Escape continues its commitment to using music as a platform for meaningful change ? amplifying the conversation around mental health and uniting our community in support of a vital cause.

Find out more about CALM and their mission here.

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