Stockport-based men’s mental health charity, Mentell, has been announced as a finalist for a prestigious national award, recognised as the ‘Oscars’ of the small charity world.
The charity, which runs weekly peer-support ‘circles’ in accessible community venues, has been nominated for a Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) Award.
The CSJ Awards seek out the top charities nationwide, highlighting those that excel in innovation and effectiveness in the fight against poverty. The Awards celebrate the best of the small charity sector who are providing innovative policy solutions to address the root causes of poverty across the UK.
Suicide is the biggest cause of death among men under 50, and men account for three in every four people who die by suicide. Mentell exists to keep husbands, partners, uncles, fathers, brothers and sons alive for longer by reaching men before the crisis point and inviting them into welcoming, confidential spaces where they can talk openly, build emotional resilience and strengthen the wellbeing of their families and communities.
Andy Walker, Co-Founder & Director of Mentell, said:
“We are incredibly proud to be named a finalist in the 2026 CSJ Awards. Across the country, too many men struggle in silence until they reach crisis point. Mentell exists to change that by creating welcoming, confidential spaces where men can talk openly and honestly about life’s challenges.
“This recognition highlights the importance of early intervention and the power of conversation in improving mental health and wellbeing. Most importantly, it recognises the men who have shown courage in stepping forward and supporting one another. We are honoured that the Centre for Social Justice has recognised the impact of this work.”
Andy Cook, CEO of the Centre for Social Justice, said:
“While political uncertainty continues at home and global challenges mount, there’s an army of small charities in some of our most deprived communities across the UK quietly rolling up their sleeves and changing lives.”
Winners of the CSJ Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Westminster in November, where they will receive a cash prize of £20,000 and have their work showcased in front of an influential audience of politicians, philanthropists, journalists, celebrities, and policy makers.
