A BIRMINGHAM mental health charity is celebrating after winning two prestigious national care awards.
Birmingham Mind, a charity for those struggling with their mental health, across Birmingham and Solihull, was crowned winners of the Community Engagement Award and the Leadership Award at this year’s Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards.
The awards recognise individuals and organisations that bring about significant impact in their communities within the not-for-profit sector – celebrating hard work, dedication, innovation and excellence.
The Community Engagement Award was presented to Birmingham Mind for its three Connect groups across East Birmingham, which sees those in need access expert wellbeing advice and mental health support, alongside free food which would otherwise have been wasted from supermarkets, while providing users with an opportunity to connect with others facing similar difficulties.
Adding to their success, the charity’s Talking Space Service Manager, Donna Henderson, also picked up the Leadership Award for her outstanding impact within the charity.
Judges applauded Donna’s leadership, particularly in how she shows understanding and compassion for her team while also fulfilling the role of acting manager to the helpline team.
Donna said: “Winning the Leadership Award is a true honour, and I am grateful to be surrounded by so many inspiring individuals at Birmingham Mind and in the not-for-profit care sector.
“The recognition for our East Birmingham, Vulnerable Adults Team, truly highlights the incredible impact of their work in this locality, not only for those adults who already access a Birmingham Mind service, but for the wider community in this part of our city.
“I was honoured to accept both of these awards, as an acknowledgment of our hard work and commitment to helping those in crisis. I am very proud to lead such a caring and supportive team.”
The 10th Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards were organised by Care Management Matters (CMM), and developed in conjunction with the National Care Forum.
Neil Galjaard, divisional managing director at Markel, said: “Every year, we are inspired by the incredible stories of how people and organisations across the UK make a real difference in people’s lives – and Birmingham Mind and Donna Henderson are a shining example of doing just that.
“Congratulations Birmingham Mind and Donna Henderson and to all of the winners and finalists for their exceptional work, and thank you for the lasting impact you have on those you care for – it is truly inspiring.”
