The Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation for Mental Health (MSH Foundation), a Croydon-based registered charity (1176447) committed to mental health equity and community wellbeing, celebrated its 8th Anniversary with a landmark event at the House of Lords on 24 November 2025. The function was hosted by Baroness Manzila Uddin and attended by parliamentarians, clinicians, community leaders, business representatives, volunteers, young people and supporters from across London and the UK.
Founded in 2017 by Toni Letts OBE and Cllr Dr Manju Shahul-Hameed, the charity has evolved from a small grassroots initiative to a major community movement. It has delivered more than 400 free community programmes and works with over 250 community and voluntary sector organisations, making a substantial impact across Croydon.
Opening Reflections
In her opening remarks, Toni Letts OBE, Chair of the Foundation, highlighted the organisation’s growth and strong partnerships, noting that the charity “continues to grow because it meets people where they are, supported by valued sponsors, partners and volunteers.”
Showcasing Community-Led Mental Health Support
The charity’s key programmes were highlighted at the event, reflecting its commitment to culturally competent and accessible mental health initiatives:
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Four Intergenerational Dementia Cafés across Croydon
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Coffee with Counsellor offering emotional support at a food bank for homeless people, refugees and asylum seekers
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National Commission for Mental Health amplifying young people’s voices
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Youth empowerment conferences at the House of Lords and House of Commons
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Love Not Hate: Young Stars of London performance and unity programme
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Living Well with Psychosis in partnership with Maudsley Charity
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Mental Health Hour pop-up hubs in faith centres and community spaces
The Foundation is also partnering with the Empower Dementia Network and King’s College London to co-produce culturally appropriate dementia resources for South Asian families.
Launch of the 2025 Youth Conference Report
A key moment was the launch of the 2025 Youth Conference Report, presented by Glenn Pearson, Deputy Director of the Mayor of London’s Violence Reduction Unit. The report reflects the input of more than 100 young people and outlines recommendations on mental health, safety, education and inclusion.
Barrister Stephen Akinsanya praised the charity’s youth-centred model, stating:
“There are no bad children — only children failed by the systems around them.”
Parliamentarians and Leaders in Attendance
Distinguished speakers included:
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Cllr Richard Chatterjee, Civic Mayor of Croydon
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Sarah Jones MP
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Natasha Irons MP
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Sojan Joseph MP
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Claire Reynolds, Executive Director, Labour Party
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Marvin Francis, Wellbeing Manager, BBC
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Shahid Alam, Counsellor (Political & TSI), High Commission of India
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Dr Teia Rogers, Maudsley Charity
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Dr Andy Bradshaw, King’s College London
Also in attendance were former Mayors Cllr Nasim Ali, Cllr Sherwan Chowdhury and Philip Abraham, along with Cllr Catherine Wilson.
Entertainment featured young performers Ananya Anil and Caren Georgee.
Awards Presented
Awards were presented by Sarah Jones MP and Baroness Manzila Uddin:
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Ms Leah Rose Jobince – Emerging Woman in Enterprise Award
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Dr Binto Simon – Emerging Educator Award
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Mr Tijo Joseph – Outstanding Achiever in Multiple Industries Award
Celebrating Volunteers and Partnerships
With over 60 volunteers supporting its work, the Foundation honoured young people, trustees, community partners and sponsors. Special thanks were given to Dr Simon’s Academy of Science, Fairmart, Arkee Capital, and the charity’s photography and design partners.
Closing Remarks
In her closing address, Cllr Dr Manju Shahul-Hameed said:
“We are not just an organisation — we are a family. Our work is built on love, compassion and community. Together we are breaking stigma, lifting one another and creating hope for those who need it most.”
Looking Forward
As the Foundation enters its ninth year, it plans to expand dementia support programmes, strengthen youth engagement through the National Commission for Mental Health, and launch new community-led initiatives. The charity will also continue its December 2025 Dementia Café series across Croydon.
Website: www.msfoundations.co.uk
Facebook: Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation for Mental Health
Instagram: msfoundations.co.uk
Twitter: @mshfoundations
LinkedIn: Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation for Mental Health
TikTok: mshfoundation4mentalh
YouTube: Manju Shahul-Hameed Foundation for Mental Health
(Photo Credit: Events MediaPhotography)
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