A new group of Compassionate Community Champions will be honoured at a presentation ceremony at the Town Hall on 10 April 2025. After Colchester’s recognition last year as the first Compassionate City in the East of England, the community is invited to come together to celebrate local acts of kindness. The Compassionate Community Champions awards honour individuals, groups, and organisations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing challenges such as serious illness, ageing, caregiving, and loss.
Following a nomination process, 10 new individuals and projects have been approved by a review panel. They will each receive a Compassionate Community Champion certificate and badge, presented by the Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell.
Among the past honourees is Darren Couchman, a Compassionate Champion recognised last quarter. A testicular cancer survivor of 20 years, Darren has spent over 13 years working in the voluntary sector, raising awareness and educating communities about cancer prevention. As the author of One Lump or Two, he shares his personal experience of being diagnosed with testicular cancer at 27, offering insight and support to others facing similar challenges. In May 2010, Darren set the original Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous self-check for testicular cancer, bringing together 208 men to promote early detection and self-examination.
Darren’s commitment to cancer awareness has had a profound impact on the local community. With extensive experience in delivering awareness campaigns, he has led educational talks across North East Essex, creating a safe space for open conversations about health. A passionate advocate, he supports various charities and plays a key role at The Robin Cancer Trust, offering guidance to those affected by cancer. Through his empathy, humour, and light-hearted approach, Darren breaks down barriers and empowers young people to discuss sensitive health issues with confidence, making him a true Compassionate Champion.
Similarly, Jo Coldwell and Laura Beesley, founders of Death Club, have been recognised for their efforts in fostering open conversations around death, grief, and bereavement in Colchester.
Understanding the importance of discussions on bereavement, they launched Death Club, a monthly gathering offering a safe, informal space for people to talk about death without stigma. Unlike traditional ‘death cafés’, it has no set agenda—just honest and meaningful conversations. Over the past year, Death Club has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with attendees leaving feeling enlightened and supported. Many say they have nowhere else to have these conversations, and the group has provided invaluable comfort and reassurance.
Through their compassion and willingness to give their time freely, Jo and Laura have helped normalise discussions on death while making Red Lion Bookshop a true community hub.
The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell, said: "This event is an opportunity to honour the extraordinary individuals whose selfless acts of kindness and compassion truly make Colchester a better place. They often have no idea of the impact their actions have on others because it’s simply who they are. Their commitment not only changes lives but also embodies the values I live by and have chosen as my themes for this year: fostering tolerance, understanding, and creating a safe, welcoming space for everyone. I am deeply moved by the difference they make and feel incredibly privileged to celebrate their efforts and to have the opportunity to say thank you. These champions inspire us all to break down barriers and show that even the smallest acts of kindness can create lasting change in our community."
Greg Cooper, Head of Community Asset Development & Partnerships at St Helena Hospice said: “St Helena Hospice proudly supports the Compassionate Community network in northeast Essex. The Compassionate Champions initiative highlights kindness and compassion in our communities, especially amid negative news. Colchester is recognised as a Compassionate City for its many people, projects, and places that support those facing serious illness, ageing, caregiving, loss, and isolation. We look forward to celebrating those making a difference. We encourage the community to nominate others for recognition—whether a colleague, neighbour, friend, family member, project, or business.”
"As Colchester prepares to honour the newest Compassionate Champions on 10 April, the event will serve as a heartfelt reminder of the kindness, resilience, and dedication that define our community. We look forward to celebrating these inspiring individuals and recognising their incredible contributions to making Colchester a kinder, more compassionate place for everyone."
Pictured above: Mayor Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell, Darren Couchman and Louise Irons
Page last reviewed: 1 April 2025