Prime Minster David Cameron has announced today that Tim Mckenna, a Time to Change campaigner, has received a prestigious Point of Light award.
Tim works tirelessly to make sure that no one has to face stigma and discrimination because of their mental health problem. He particularly wants to appeal to men to show that mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. Featuring in our national campaign, Tim has shared his story with the nation. He is in our TV advert and has spoken out in numerous media interviews. If that’s not enough, Tim has blogged for Time to Change and attended events to spread the message far and wide that it’s time to talk about mental health.
The Points of Light award has been developed in partnership with the hugely successful Points of Light programme in the USA and was first established by President George H. W. Bush. Over 5,000 US Points of Light have been awarded and both President George H. W. Bush and President Barack Obama have publicly supported the partnership with Points of Light UK, which honours shining examples of volunteering across the country.
Sue Baker, Director of Time to Change, said:
“We couldn’t be happier to hear that Tim has won this special award and it couldn’t have gone to a more deserving person. Tim has made an incredible difference and by sharing his story in our national advertising he has shown millions of people that it’s okay to talk about mental health. We know that unfortunately men can often find it difficult to seek help and support, which sometimes has devastating consequences, but Tim felt that he could share his experiences and really make a difference - and he really has! Our work will continue until we can put an end to life-limiting stigma and discrimination and we can only do this with people like Tim by our side.”
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“Regrettably too often there can still be a stigma attached to mental illness. It takes real guts for those with personal experiences to talk about them. By courageously telling his story in such a public way, Tim has made it easier for others to reach out to friends, families and colleagues or to ask for the support they need. I’m proud to make Tim the 129th UK Point of Light.”
Tim said:
"I only started speaking out about mental health to help make sense of my illness, and because I felt I owed it to my sister and others who are no longer here. It's been a pretty amazing journey so far, one that has given me back a lot of my self-confidence and sense of purpose. I certainly didn't expect to win any awards though! I'm thrilled and humbled by this, and I accept it on behalf of all the Time to Change volunteers that are doing amazing work up and down the country."
Read more about Tim’s award