Counselling in the Community Kings Award

Counselling in the Community (CITC), a Blackpool-based mental health charity, has been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honour a voluntary group can receive in the United Kingdom.

Often described as the MBE for volunteer groups, the King’s Award recognises exceptional voluntary service carried out by people who give their time to support others and strengthen their communities. CITC is one of a small number of organisations nationwide to receive the honour this year.

Founded to make counselling accessible to those who might otherwise struggle to access support, Counselling in the Community provides affordable and free mental health services to children, young people and adults across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast.

The charity works with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, social isolation and the long-term impact of adversity, many of whom live in areas of high deprivation.

The award recognises the commitment, compassion and professionalism of CITC’s volunteer counsellors and support staff, who collectively give thousands of hours each year to help people at some of the most difficult points in their lives.

Stu Hutton-Brown, founder and chief executive, said: “This award belongs entirely to our volunteers.

"They show up week after week with care, skill and empathy, often working quietly behind the scenes to support people who are struggling.

"To see their work recognised at this level is incredibly moving and deeply deserved.”

The King’s Award comes at a significant time for the charity, as demand for mental health support continues to rise locally. CITC currently supports hundreds of individuals each year through its network of community counselling hubs, with a strong focus on early intervention and prevention.

The charity will formally receive its award certificate later this year, with volunteers invited to attend an official presentation by the Lord Lieutenant.

Stu Hutton-Brown added: “Mental health support is not a luxury. It is a lifeline. Our volunteers help create safe spaces where people feel heard, valued and supported, sometimes for the first time. This award is recognition of that impact, not just for our organisation, but for our community.”