WATCH CIO has been awarded a prestigious ‘Highly Commended’ trophy at the recent BBC Make a Difference Awards.
The annual awards ceremony hosted by BBC Somerset was held on Sunday 28 September at Westlands Entertainment Venue in Yeovil and recognised the positive impact of individuals and groups across the county.
Watch CIO was one of 29 nominees at the event, and was represented by CEO, Julie Matthews BEM, Gemma Matthews, Peer Engagement Lead, Abby Chambers, Member Co-Ordinator, and Ollie Male, who nominated the charity.
Julie Matthews, CEO of Watch CIO, said: “It is an honour to be recognised at the BBC’s Make a Difference Awards 2025 for our contribution to mental health services in Somerset. We are very passionate about helping isolated people living in our communities and want to inspire them with hope and potential in life.”
“We were humbled to stand alongside so many amazing individuals and groups who make a positive impact in their communities every single day. Hearing their stories reminded us why we do what we do – to empower, connect and support people to reach their full potential and reduce social isolation”, Julie added.
Watch – which is an acronym for Working All Together in Chard – has a long history in Chard since being established in 2010, helping to connect isolated individuals through the power of Intentional Peer Support.
Every week, the charity runs its flagship ‘Thursday Project’ programme, providing members with activities and a warm safe space to support each other. It also runs regular activities outdoors, with conservation and horticulture to help boost mental health and wellbeing.
