claudia AITMThe world’s longest-running series dedicated to mental health has launched the All In The Mind Awards, set to recognise the achievements of individuals and groups who have made a real difference to the lives of people with mental health difficulties.

To mark a quarter of a century on the air, All in the Mind is calling on members of the public to nominate a person, project or group that has gone above and beyond the call of duty in helping people to overcome the challenges associated with mental health issues.

The judging panel will be chaired by Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills, who has personal experience of anxiety and depression. He said: "It is incredibly important to have the right support in your life when things are difficult.

"So I’m really pleased to be involved in Radio 4’s All In The Mind Awards, recognising some of the fantastic work that goes on up and down the country every day to support people with mental health difficulties. I’m looking forward to reading the nominations that come in, so please do get in touch.”

There will be three separate award categories:
• The Individual Award, which will go to an outstandingly supportive family member, friend, boss or colleague
• The Professional Award, which will recognise the outstanding dedication of a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, nurse, therapist or other professional
• The Project Award, which will mark the achievement of a mental health project or group that has made a big difference to people’s recovery or ability to cope.

The other judges on the panel will be: MP Charles Walker, who has been open about his mental health issues; clinical psychologist Guy Holmes; Marion Janner, founder of inpatient care best practice guide Star Wards, and All in the Mind presenter Claudia Hammond (pictured).

“Working on the programme over the years I’ve been struck by how often people I’ve interviewed tell me about one individual, whether their friend, relative or a member of staff who’s made a real difference to their recovery,” said Hammond. “I’ve also visited some amazing projects, so it’s great to have a way of recognising the people who work so hard in this way.”

The winners of the awards will be announced during a ceremony to be held at the Wellcome Collection in London on June 19, 2014.

For further information on the awards and how to enter, visit the All in the Mind website – www.bitly.com/aitmawards. The closing date for entries is January 31, 2014.