Celebrating 25 Years of Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation

In May 2026, Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation (BLCF) began celebrating a major milestone – its 25th Anniversary. The special event brought together partners, funders, stakeholders and community groups to reflect on the difference they have made over the past 25 years and to look ahead to the future.

The celebration was held at Shuttleworth House and recognised the positive impact BLCF has had across Bedfordshire and Luton. Guests heard from BLCF Founder and Patron Geoffrey Farr, Chair of Trustees Sue Hughes, and CEO Karen Perkins. Their speeches highlighted the achievements of the organisation, the communities it has supported, and the exciting opportunities ahead.

One of the most memorable parts of the event was the artwork displayed throughout the venue. Each room featured creative pieces provided by organisations and groups that have received support from BLCF over the years. These displays helped tell the stories of the many people whose lives have been improved through community projects and local initiatives.

‘For Men To Talk’ was honoured to be invited to contribute to this special exhibition. The organisation provided an A4 photo frame filled with testimonials from attendees who have benefited from its peer support groups. The comments shared personal experiences of how the group has helped improve mental health, reduce isolation, and provide a safe space to talk.

The testimonials showed the real impact that simple conversations can have. Many men explained how attending meetings helped them cope with anxiety, depression, grief and other challenges. Others spoke about the friendships they had made and the support they found during difficult times.

‘For Men To Talk’ would like to thank Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation for the funding it has received in the past. This support has helped the organisation continue its important work and reach more men who need support with their mental health.

Luke Newman, CEO of ‘For Men To Talk’, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation for their support over the years. Their funding has helped us continue providing safe spaces where men can talk openly about their mental health. It was a privilege to be part of their 25th Anniversary celebrations and to share the voices of the men who attend our groups. Congratulations to everyone at BLCF on reaching this remarkable milestone, and thank you for everything you do to support local communities.”

Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation is an independent local grantmaker that funds voluntary and community groups across Bedfordshire and Luton. Through its work, it helps organisations improve the lives of local people and strengthen communities.

‘For Men To Talk’ is a peer support group for men living with mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and grief. Meetings provide a safe and comfortable environment where men can speak openly about issues including work, relationships and wellbeing. There is no registration, referral or cost to attend.

The organisation offers physical, virtual, walking, fishing and social meetings, as well as ‘For Men To Talk about Autism’. It will also soon launch the ‘For Men To Talk Shed’ in Stotfold, providing a hands-on workshop environment where men can build confidence, learn practical skills and connect with others.

To find out more about ‘For Men To Talk’, visit www.formentotalk.co.uk, call 07709 446480 or email luke@formentotalk.co.uk.