‘For Men To Talk’ facilitator, Kenny-Joe Witney, shortlisted at the BBC Three Counties Make a Difference Awards
“Kenny-Joe is one of the most selfless, passionate and dedicated people I know. His support for men’s mental health and autism is inspiring to us all.” – Luke Newman, Founder of ‘For Men To Talk’.
We are thrilled to share some amazing news from ‘For Men To Talk’. Our very own Kenny-Joe Witney has been shortlisted for the Volunteer Award at the 2025 BBC Three Counties Make a Difference Awards!
This award is given to someone who has made a big difference in their community by volunteering their time to help others. Kenny-Joe is a perfect example of this.
Kenny-Joe has been open about his own battles with mental health and his autism diagnosis. Instead of letting it hold him back, he chose to help others who might be going through the same things. For the past 18 months, he has led two types of meetings for ‘For Men To Talk’ – and both have made a big impact.
One of these is the ‘For Men To Talk about Autism’ virtual meeting. It’s held twice a month and is especially for:
- Autistic men
- Men with autistic family members
- Men waiting for an autism diagnosis
This meeting gives them a safe space to share, connect, and feel understood.
Kenny-Joe also runs the ‘For Men To Talk – Hitchin’ walking group meetings, also held twice a month. These walks allow men to talk while walking side by side – which can often feel easier than sitting face-to-face.
But that’s not all. Kenny-Joe even started the ‘For Men To Talk’ market stall in Hitchin. The profits from this stall go straight back into helping men who are struggling with their mental health.
His dedication, passion, and care have helped so many. That’s why we’re so proud that he’s being recognised with this nomination.
The winners of the BBC Three Counties Make a Difference Awards will be chosen by a panel of judges. The special ceremony will be held on 18 September 2025 in Dunstable.
‘For Men To Talk’ is a men’s peer support group. We offer safe, friendly spaces for men suffering from anxiety, depression, or grief to talk with others who understand. We offer different types of meetings, including:
- Physical sessions
- Virtual sessions
- Fishing meetups
- Walking groups
Thanks to support and donations, our physical and walking meetings continue to grow. And with volunteers like Kenny-Joe, we know we’re making a real difference.
Please join us in congratulating Kenny-Joe for this well-deserved recognition. He is a shining light in our community.
You can hear his interview with BBC Three Counties Radio here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/p0ltp22x
For further information on ’For Men To Talk’, visit www.formentotalk.co.uk, 07709 446480 or via email at luke@formentotalk.co.uk.