Celebrating an Extraordinary Achievement

We’re incredibly proud to share that Natalie, our Founder and CEO, has been named the Winner of the Unsung Hero Award at the Best of South Tyneside Awards 2026.

This recognition reflects her unwavering dedication to supporting people bereaved by suicide, shaped by her own loss following her brother Billy's death. What began as one woman’s determination to ensure no one faces that devastation alone has grown into a compassionate, community-rooted charity that continues to change lives every day.

Natalie leads with courage, empathy, and a fierce commitment to those who need support in their darkest moments. This award shines a light on the impact she makes quietly, consistently, and wholeheartedly.

As well as this, Edna, Donna, Helen and Dionne were also shortlisted as finalists in the same category, AND Billy’s Lifeline was shortlisted as Community Group of the Year. We have an amazing team and are so proud to be recognised in this way.

Natalie said “This award is for all the heroes that get up daily and work those extra nights and weekends to help provide a service. Because without those very special people there would be no service at Billy's and sadly numbers are still rising and people need our support”.

We would also like to congratulate all of the other finalists and winners, a room full of amazing groups and individuals that do so much in South Tyneside and we were delighted to catch up with some old friends and new.