Residents from across the West Midlands were once again honoured for their outstanding work in mental health at this year’s Mental Health Star Awards.

After hundreds of nominations submitted for acts of heroism and innovation within the region through the Covid-19 pandemic, eleven awards were handed out at a virtual ceremony hosted by The Chase’s Paul Sinha.

One award receipt was Taylor Pattinson, who picked up an award for the reach, accessibility, and impact of his mental health podcast – The Waffle Shop Podcast.

On his award win, he said: “This is a huge honour and I’d like to thank my mum who was a real driving force behind making this podcast a reality.

Taylor Pattinson picked up an Individual (over 25) Mental Health Star award for the Coventry & Warwickshire region.

"No one is defined by their mental health and these awards are a testament to everyone out there that even from painful and dark experiences, incredible things can still happen.”

This year’s awards are linked to the WMCA’s new Mental Health Commission, whose remit includes highlighting examples of innovation and good practice in mental health.

The commission includes leaders from key sectors including local authorities, the NHS, the business sector, sports, the criminal justice system and academia, as well as those who have experienced the challenges presented by the pandemic.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, said: “The Mental Health Star Awards are a wonderful way to recognise the achievements of the many unsung heroes from across our region who are making such a positive impact within their communities.  

“In some ways, lockdown brought mental health issues to the fore like never before and as Mayor, I want to see the wellbeing of West Midlands residents prioritised so that we can all flourish and reach our full potential. 

“I’d like to congratulate all of the winners and nominees on their success.”

Cllr Izzi Seccombe, leader of Warwickshire County Council, said: "Well done to all the winners of the WMCA Mental Health Star Awards 2022.

“It was fantastic to see so many worthy recipients from across the region honoured with awards and to find out more about their inspirational stories."

Details of all the winners below:

Young Person (16-25) - Florence Grant

Individual (over 25)   - Vickie Pring (Birmingham & Solihull)

- Ranjit Singh (Black Country)

- Taylor Pattison (Coventry & Warwickshire)

Collaboration - Music and Mental Health Group

Cariss Evans Award for innovation in work - Rebecca Mainstone

Team, Service or Organisation (Large) - Like Minds Team at Adult Ed service Wolverhampton

Team, Service or Organisation (Supporting Community Mental Health Through Being Active) - Gro-Organic

Term, Service or Organisation (Targeted Support for Communities) - Himaya Haven & Lindale Recovery Services