NEIL HAWKINS

Neil is a highly successful leader in the education and voluntary sectors. He has record of setting high standards and facilitating transformative development in UK and international settings. His leadership whether in education or the charitable sector has led to institutional improvement and growth, through sensitive implementation of strategic change and the management of diverse stakeholders. His roles as Chair at Befrienders Worldwide and of Humanists UK highlight his expertise in governance, advocacy, and ethical leadership.

'My commitment to Tough to Talk is heartfelt. Men like to solve problems and too many men take their own lives. These statements are linked. As we make our way through life, the problems we face can build up. Men often try to solve each problem and can fear admitting that they don’t have an answer. As a result, too few men seek help or realise that the problems they are trying to solve are affecting their mental health. This can lead them to more and more extreme solutions, including addiction, breakdown or suicide. I have seen this close up and have painful lived experience and wish this on no one. The work of Tough to Talk makes a difference.

I am honoured to be joining the team at Tough to Talkative a pivotal time in the development of the charity. We have clear goals and significant ambitions. Above all, we want as many people as possible to hear our message loud and clear: men are vulnerable and are dying unnecessarily.