Belfast charity shortlisted for national awards
This Small Charity Week, a charity based in Belfast has been announced as a finalist for a prestigious national award, recognised as the ‘Oscars’ of the small charity world.
The Parent Rooms, which support the mental health and wellbeing of parents and carers, has been nominated for a Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) Award.
The CSJ Awards seek out the top charities nationwide, highlighting those that excel in innovation and effectiveness in the fight against poverty. The diverse panel of judges includes Model and Creative Director David Gandy, BAFTA-Winning Actor Toby Jones, and past CSJ Award winners along with cross-sector experts that come together to select the winners.
The Awards celebrate the best of the small charity sector who are providing innovative policy solutions to address the root causes of poverty across the UK.
The Parent Rooms provides a welcoming Belfast base where parents can access social connection, therapeutic support and practical pathways to recovery. The charity reports that 85% of parents experienced improved mental health after working with The Parent Rooms.
Michelle Bradley, Founder and CEO of The Parent Rooms, said:
“We are delighted to be recognised as a finalist in the 2026 CSJ Awards. Supporting the wellbeing of parents and carers is vital to building stronger families and healthier communities. At The Parent Rooms, we provide a safe and supportive space where parents can access peer support, therapeutic interventions and meaningful connections with others who understand their experiences.
“This recognition highlights the importance of ensuring that no parent feels alone in their journey. We are proud of the community that has been built together and honoured that the Centre for Social Justice has recognised the impact of this work across Belfast.”
Andy Cook, CEO of the Centre for Social Justice, said:
“While political uncertainty continues at home and global challenges mount, there’s an army of small charities in some of our most deprived communities across the UK quietly rolling up their sleeves and changing lives.
“The CSJ Awards are the Oscars of the small charity sector where we celebrate the very best of those unsung heroes who rarely get the recognition they deserve.
“Today we are proud to announce our twelve 2026 finalists. We will be revealing the winners at our CSJ Awards ceremony in the heart of Westminster this November.”