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Carl McCulloch

And the winner is… Best Mates #wegotya

And the winner is… Best Mates #wegotya
Carl McCulloch
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Last night, Jeff was joined by fellow colleagues from Best Mates, Sherelyn Cowles, one of our Walk N Talk leaders from Melksham, and Janet Shreeve of Shreeve Care Services at the South West Business Awards.

What a night it was. Being nominated and shortlisted for Charity of the Year against such strong competition already felt like an incredible achievement. We were genuinely just happy to have made it that far.

Then came the moment…

“And the winner is… Best Mates – We Got Ya.”
Proud is an understatement, and emotions definitely took over.

This award is about awareness. It helps us take our message further, reaching more towns, more communities, and more people who may need a Best Mate by their side.

Jeff said, speaking on behalf of himself and Carl:
“We did it. This award belongs to every single person who has been involved, helped, worked with us, advised us, created, delivered and sacrificed their time to build Best Mates and support others over the past 28 months. Thank you to everyone. We are your Best Mates… and We Got Ya.”

Charity News
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February Newsletter

February Newsletter
Carl McCulloch
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Welcome to the February newsletter

We’ve successfully smashed through the first two months of the year, which can seem very long for a multitude of reasons, but spring is just around the corner, so that’s always something to look forward to!

There’s been plenty going on in February in terms of new groups, fundraising efforts and engagement, and we’ve got many events coming up this year for you to get involved in.

And we are always on the lookout for new Mates and Volunteers to join our growing team. Would you like to get involved? Please see below ‘Volunteers Needed – Join the Team’ for all the information.

Carl, Jeff and Rinny

Visit our site

Fundraising Updates

Lashings

The 2026 partnership between Lashings and Best Mates got underway in January in style with a Paul Merson lunch at Gaucho Piccadilly. These events are always great fun, and this was no different.
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A crowd of 80 people enjoyed a 3-course lunch, stories and anecdotes from Paul Merson and a talk from our CEO, Carl McCulloch.
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Brilliant fun was had all round, and the day raised a fantastic £1200. That money will be used to help people battling addiction to alcohol with a 12-week support program.
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Huge thanks to everyone who attended the day

Hera Clothing Sale

We are fortunate enough to have a wonderful partnership with Hera, who, on numerous occasions have donated new clothing to us that we are then able to pass on to raise funds.

Our self-styled Queen of Hera, Carol Owens, ran the latest sale this month, and together with Paul Morrison and her team, sold 600 items on the day, as well as being able to donate unsold items to local charities – Big Breakfast, Salvation Army, Night Shelter and Threshold Housing.
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Thank you Carol and everyone at Hera!

Thank you, Montala

A special mention has to go to one of our Mates, Emma Huby and her team at Montala.
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Over the last year or so, their company’s salary sacrifice scheme has raised an amazing £13,903!!! The difference this money has made and continues to make to people’s lives is almost indescribable.
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We are so grateful to Emma and the team for their continued support!

MCH London goes hiking for Best Mates

This month saw Mark Howarth from MCH London and his good friend Louis Furner take on a 25-mile hike in aid of Best Mates.

From Staplehurst to Sevenoaks, over 1500ft of elevation and 10 hours on the move, they raised £500 for us. That’s 10 hours of therapy for someone in need!

Huge thanks to Mark and Louis for your efforts!

Best Mates receives £11,500 donation from the Serco Foundation

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​We are delighted to announce that the Serco Foundation has awarded Best Mates #wegotya a donation of £11,500. This generous donation recognises the impact Best Mates makes and the charity’s ability to deliver meaningful outcomes.
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This funding will help Best Mates to expand our Walk ‘N’ Talks, reach more people in need, and strengthen volunteer and corporate partnership activities that create lasting positive change in the community.
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Jeff Tucker, Co-Founder of Best Mates, said, “We are very grateful for this donation from the Serco Foundation, which is a huge boost for Best Mates and our Walk ‘N’ Talk programme. It will allow us to start new walk and talks, support our volunteers, and reach more people early on to connect them with further help.”

Infinity Connect

Julie and her team at Infinity Connect have continued their support again this year by committing to being the headline sponsor for our Golf Day at Cumberwell Park on 31st July.

The support they show allows us to keep our costs down and helps to raise our profile, both of which enables us to help more people across the country.
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We are so grateful for their continued support!

Win Big In Our ‘We Got Ya’ Prize Draw!

Over the next few weeks we will be launching a brand new competition for anyone signing up to Continuous Giving​.
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Some exceptional prizes on offer, which we will share with you in the March newsletter.

Keep your 👀 peeled!

Meet Your Mates

Name: Kris Walklett.
Location: Swindon.
Fav food: Steak, medium rare – it’s the correct and only way to cook it!
Holiday destination: As much as I love going abroad, you can’t beat the British countryside, North Wales, for example.
Pet Hate: Any form of discrimination, be that racism, homophobia, misogyny, etc. We’re all human.
Fun fact about myself: When I was very young, I auditioned to be the Milky Bar Kid! Didn’t get the gig; I could’ve been the British Macaulay Caulkin.
Why I became a Mate: I became a Mate for two reasons – firstly, there was nothing like Best Mates when I needed it most and secondly, I’ve learnt so much about how to manage my own condition that I want to be able to pass that knowledge onto others.
Superpower: Depression, particularly in men. I’ve learnt to make it a part of me, but it no longer defines who I am.
Best Thing About Being in Best Mates: Getting to see and hear in real time the difference we make. It’s an incredible thing to be a part of, and I’m immensely proud to be a Mate.

Could You Be A Mate?

As Best Mates continues to grow, the need for more people willing to step forward and make a difference grows as well.

We are currently recruiting more ‘Mates‘ – individuals with lived experience who have faced their own challenges, found a way through, and now feel ready to help guide and support others walking a similar path.

Being a Mate isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about understanding. It’s about listening without judgment. It’s about saying, “I get it,” and meaning it. That shared experience can be incredibly powerful for someone who feels alone or unsure where to turn.

If you’ve come through tough times and are now in a place where you feel strong enough to support someone else, we would love to hear from you.

​www.bestmates.org, email contact@bestmates.org or pick up the phone and call 0300 303 6283

Volunteers Needed – Join The Team

We’re also expanding our wider volunteer network, led by our very own Kris Walklett, who has stepped up to help coordinate and support volunteers across our growing number of events.

Whether it’s helping at Walk N Talk, supporting community events, assisting with admin, or simply being present to share the Best Mates message, there are many ways to get involved.

Volunteering with Best Mates means becoming part of a team that is actively changing lives in local communities. It’s hands-on, meaningful, and rooted in genuine care for others.

If you’re interested in becoming a Mate or joining our volunteer team, please get in touch –
​www.bestmates.org email contact@bestmates.org or pick up the phone and call 0300 303 6283

Together, we can continue building something that truly makes a difference.

Birthdays in February

This month saw the birthday of our Co-Founder, Jeff Tucker, as well as two of our Mates celebrating their birthdays! We won’t share their ages, of course, but we would like to wish Harri Thomson and Katie Tidy a very Happy Birthday from all of us at Best Mates.

Turning Support Into Real Impact

Here’s a snapshot of the impact we’ve made together up to 25th February 2026, showing how your support is changing lives.

Newsletter
1375 834 Carl McCulloch
January Newsletter

January Newsletter
Carl McCulloch
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Welcome to the January newsletter

Welcome to 2026! We hope everything is going well so far.

We’ve already hit the ground running this year, supporting more people and raising awareness across the country. There is so much to look forward to in terms of events and initiatives that we are eager to share with you.

And…you may have noticed something new.

We have refreshed our look and feel across our brand and communications. This update is designed to stand out more clearly across all channels, improve readability and enhance accessibility. Our bold updated colour palette creates a more welcoming feel and better reflects who we are and those we support.

This update celebrates the inclusive, compassionate spirit of Best Mates, reinforcing that we are here for everyone navigating life’s challenges. We look forward to sharing more of this with you in the weeks to come!
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Carl, Jeff & Rinny

Visit our site

Walking through 2026 with purpose

Walk ‘N’ Talk Wednesdays – Building Something That Lasts

A huge amount of work goes on behind the scenes to get each Walk ‘N’ Talk off the ground. Finding the right people who not only want to lead these walks but can commit to delivering them week in, week out is no small task. The consistency, care, and dedication shown by our volunteers is what makes Walk N Talk work, and we’re incredibly grateful to every one of them.

Last year, we saw Melksham go live, bringing our total to three Walk ‘N’ Talk groups. This year marks a major milestone. We’re proud to confirm the following new launches:

  • Swindon (Coate) – Live
  • Folkestone – Live
  • Melksham – Live
  • Cheltenham – 11th February
  • Yate – 18th February
  • Swindon (Lydiard Park) – 25th February

These launches will take us to the six walking groups that Jeff originally set out to achieve; a huge step forward for the programme.

Looking ahead, our ambition doesn’t stop there. Our goal is to reach 10+ Walk ‘N’ Talk groups by the end of 2026. Why? Because the impact is real. If each group welcomes just 20 people, across 10 groups, that’s 200 people every Wednesday experiencing connection, support, and a positive moment in their week.

Each walk also becomes a local hub for Best Mates, allowing us to build relationships and deliver further support and services in those towns and cities where they’re needed most.

This is how change happens, one walk, one conversation, one community at a time.

What is Walk ‘N’ Talk?

It’s a weekly Best Mates initiative that brings people together in a safe, welcoming space to walk, talk, and connect. It’s open to anyone who wants support, conversation, or simply to get out in the fresh air with others who understand.

Each walk offers more than just exercise; it provides community, reassurance, and a starting point for people who may be facing life’s challenges. For some, it’s a chance to chat. For others, it’s the first step towards accessing further support through Best Mates. Everyone is welcome, just as they are

How You Can Help – Leaders & Sponsors Needed

As this continues to grow across the county, we’re always looking for local leaders and supporters to help us reach more people.

We need:

  • Volunteer walk leaders who can commit to running a weekly walk in their area
  • Local businesses and sponsors who want to support their community through funding, resources, or staff volunteering

By helping us lead or sponsor a Walk ‘N’ Talk, you’re directly supporting people in your community and helping Best Mates create lasting local impact.

If you’d like to get involved, please get in touch at jeff.tucker@bestmates.org. Together, we can reach more people, one walk at a time.

Women Who Walk – 25km Challenge

A huge well done to every single woman who took on the 25km ‘Women Who Walk’ challenge.

What an incredible display of determination, resilience, and togetherness. Miles were covered, limits were pushed, and most importantly, vital awareness was raised along the way.

These events are about far more than distance. They are about showing what is possible when people come together with a shared purpose, supporting one another through the tough moments and celebrating every step forward.

A special shout-out must go to Corinne, who organised the event and made sure everyone involved was supported from start to finish. From planning and coordination to encouragement on the day, her effort helped everyone smash it and made the whole experience what it was.

Thank you to everyone who walked, supported, donated, and cheered from the sidelines. The impact of this event will be felt well beyond the 25km, and we are incredibly proud to be part of it.

Meet Your Mates

Name: Tia Newman
Location: Bristol
Hobbies: Reading
Fav food: Any kind of bread
Holiday destination: Favourite? Prague at Christmas. Dream? Bora Bora
Pet Hate: Slow people
Fun fact about myself: I used to play rugby
Why I became a Mate: I became a mate to be the person I wish I had when things got hard, and be someone that can ground others
Area of Support (superpower): Neurodiversity, body struggles and university stress
Best Thing About Being in Best Mates: To be surrounded by such positive people that are working hard to educate others, listen to others and share their experiences with those who need it most. It’s pretty special to see!

Coming next month…

A brand new prize draw! Keep your eyes peeled for all the details.

Turning Support Into Real Impact

Here’s a snapshot of the impact we’ve made together up to 20th January 2026, showing how your support is changing lives.

Newsletter
1375 834 Carl McCulloch
December Newsletter

December Newsletter
Carl McCulloch
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Welcome to the December newsletter

So, that’s a wrap on 2025. It’s been a year of support, friendships, growth and healing, and we are thankful for everyone who has helped and engaged with Best Mates throughout this year.

With 2026 just around the corner, we are excited to see what the year has in store. We hope to continue growing and providing a helping hand in any crisis to those who need it most.

We hope you have an amazing Christmas, a wonderful New Year, and we look forward to seeing you all soon.

Carl, Jeff and Corinne

Visit our site

Best Mates Announces Two-Year Partnership with Vertex

Best Mates – wegotya is proud to announce a new two-year strategic partnership with Vertex, marking a significant step forward in the organisation’s mission to provide compassionate, person-centred support to individuals and workplaces across the UK.

The partnership will focus on expanding wellbeing, pastoral, and social-support services within Vertex’s client network and employee communities, enabling both organisations to enhance the human-centred care they deliver. Through this collaboration, Best Mates will provide dedicated Mates to support individuals facing challenges, helping to improve stability, confidence, and personal outcomes.

Carl McCulloch, CEO of Best Mates, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, saying:

“We are delighted to be joining forces with Vertex and aiding them in supporting their clients and employees. This partnership allows us to continue the work we have done over the last two years.”

In a joint statement, Wayne Tantrum, Managing Director and Sean Curran, Finance Director, of Vertex, said, “We are so happy to partner with Best Mates as our chosen charity for the next two years. They were selected by our employees, reflecting the strong support our people feel for mental health and the work Best Mates does.

This partnership reflects our focus on creating a workplace where wellbeing is prioritised and openly supported. We believe in championing mental health, both within Vertex and in the wider community, and working with Best Mates enables us to contribute to that wider agenda. We look forward to collaborating with them and helping to amplify the vital support they provide.”

Valencia Marathon

Running in the sun…

This month saw our CEO, Carl McCulloch, and Ambassador, Andy Hughes, running the Valencia Marathon to raise vital funds for Best Mates.

Carl had already run two marathons, but for Andy this was his first. In 25-degree heat, both completed the 26.2 miles. What an achievement!

Carl said, “Running a marathon is hard at the best of times, but in that kind of heat, it really took it out of us. I am so proud of Andy for getting it done, his first (and probably his last!) marathon, and, despite feeling it towards the end, he showed true grit to push on through.”

Best Mates Joins Site GB Christmas Lunch

This month’s Site GB Christmas Lunch was nothing short of incredible. From the moment we walked into the room, you could feel the energy, the conversations, the connections, and a genuine willingness to make a difference.

Thanks to Matt Curran, our trustee, who first introduced us to Site GB, what started as a connection earlier this year has grown into a brilliant partnership. From a networking event to the Christmas lunch, the support shown has been outstanding.

And then came the generosity, an unbelievable £28,681 raised.

That figure isn’t just a number. It represents people who will receive support when they need it most. Real conversations, real understanding. A helping hand in any crisis.

A massive shoutout to Carl, Carol, Andy, Kris and Julie for being part of such a special day. Carl taking to the stage and sharing his story, and the story of Best Mates, was a powerful reminder of why this work matters so much.

To Site GB and everyone involved in making the day so special, thank you. Your generosity, belief, and support will directly change lives, and we’re beyond grateful to be part of this journey with you.

Best Mates Veterans

We are excited to announce the launch of Best Mates Veterans, a dedicated initiative to support veterans in the community. Our aim is to offer services and a community where veterans can access everything they and their families need. We are working with Cameron Alexander, who has served and is volunteering with us to spread the word through regiments about Best Mates Veterans.

To make this program a success, we need your help in spreading the word. If you know any veterans who could benefit from our support, or if you’d like to get involved, please reach out – contact@bestmates.org

Together, we can create a strong network of support for our veterans.

More

Walk N Talk Programme – A Growing Community of Support

The Walk N Talk Programme continues to grow, and it’s been encouraging to see the impact these simple weekly walks are having on people’s lives.

We’re pleased to confirm that Swindon and Folkestone continue to build in numbers, and Melksham is now live and welcoming people each week.

These sessions are providing safe, relaxed spaces where individuals can get some fresh air, build connections, and talk openly with others who understand.

More

Looking ahead, Yate will launch on Wednesday, 21st January, with Swindon 2 and Cheltenham also due to go live shortly after. Dates for these locations are currently being finalised and will be shared soon.

Our aim remains the same wherever we walk, to create welcoming, community-led spaces that offer support, guidance, and connection, while providing a clear pathway into further help when it’s needed.

If you’d like to volunteer or support and help set up a Walk N Talk in your local area, please get in touch at jeff.tucker@bestmates.org​

Thank you to everyone who continues to support, volunteer, and walk alongside us. Together, we’re making sure no one has to face life’s challenges alone.

Meet Your Mates

Name: Paul Morrison
Location: Swindon
Hobbies: I watch an awful lot of sport
Fav food: Mac n Cheese
Holiday destination: Weymouth
Pet Hate: Tardiness and rude behaviour
Fun fact about myself: I’m a distant relative of the Western Actor, John Wayne
Why I became a Mate: I wanted to offer support to anyone who may need someone. We all need a friend sometimes
Area of Support (superpower): Anxiety, Depression and Low Mood
Best Thing About Being in Best Mates: Supporting some amazing people, watching the growth in others. I can’t recommend the Best Mates family highly enough

Turning Support Into Real Impact

Here’s a snapshot of the impact we’ve made together up to 16th December 2025, showing how your support is changing lives.

Newsletter
1375 834 Carl McCulloch
November Newsletter

November Newsletter
Carl McCulloch
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Welcome to the November newsletter

Time is flying by, and Best Mates continues to go from strength to strength.
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We’ve recruited more Mates this past month than any other; we’ve had more beneficiaries need our help, and more corporates have talked to us about joining forces to make the world a better place.
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Christmas is coming up, and our message to you is this: take a moment to check in on those around you and make sure they are okay. It’s a difficult time of year for many people, so just a simple phone call can make a huge difference. It takes just two minutes but can change a life.

Visit our site

Park to Plaza
London to Brussels 2026

Our next European adventure has just been released, and we would love for you to join us.

Last time we cycled from London to Paris, but now we are heading a little further north as we start in Hyde Park and finish in the Grand Place, Brussels.

We will cycle on average 75-80 miles a day across four days, taking in some wonderful countryside in the UK, the Netherlands and Belgium. You don’t need to be a fitness fanatic or even wildly fit to be able to take part in this fun event. All you need is your own bike and a sense of adventure.

If you would like to join us, please visit our website.

Welcome, Julie Tooby

We’re thrilled to announce that Julie Tooby has officially joined Best Mates as our newest Trustee!

Julie has been a passionate supporter of Best Mates for some time, and this new role marks an exciting next step both for Julie and for the future of our charity.

Julie brings incredible energy, experience, and vision to the team, and her passion for helping people feel seen, heard and supported aligns perfectly with who we are and what we stand for.

In her own words:

“I believe deeply in Best Mates mission to bring people together through shared purpose, and I’m passionate about helping to expand its reach and long-term impact.”

We’re so happy to have Julie join our community and help push our mission forward, supporting more people through life’s toughest challenges.

From Supporters to Charity Partners

We’re proud to officially announce that Best Mates will become Trak Employment’s chosen charity partner from January 1st, 2026.

While we’ve supported and backed the incredible work of Best Mates over the past few years, this new formal partnership marks an exciting step forward. One built on shared values, community focus, and genuine impact.

Following conversations between Vicki and Carl, we’ve agreed to make this commitment, which will benefit both Best Mates and Trak Employment. Together, we aim to raise between £5,000 and £10,000 per year through fundraising events, donations, and collaboration.

“I’m incredibly proud that Trak is now officially supporting a charity as meaningful and impactful as Best Mates. The work they do genuinely changes lives, and it’s a privilege to be part of that journey.” Vicki McCulloch

Best Mates and Lashings Partnering in 2026

We’re absolutely delighted to announce our partnership with Lashings heading into 2026. They’ve already shown incredible support throughout 2025, and we’re truly grateful for everything they’ve done so far.

Corporate partnerships like this are a major part of what allows Best Mates to keep growing, support more people, and reach those who need us most. When organisations choose to stand with us, they help us change lives. It’s as simple as that.

As Carl put it best:

“Absolutely delighted to be working with Dave, Scott and the team at Lashings to support their clients and colleagues through 2026.”

We can’t wait to see where this partnership goes, how it evolves, and the positive impact we’ll create together next year.

Here’s to a powerful year ahead and to doing what we do best: helping people through life’s toughest challenges.

Community Spirit in Action – Thank You Bassett Bulldogs

This month, our Co-Founder Jeff had the privilege of joining the incredible Bassett Bulldogs to share the story of Best Mates, raising awareness through the power of teamwork and community.

We are absolutely delighted and deeply grateful to announce that the evening raised a massive £1,213 to help us continue supporting people through life’s toughest moments.

A special mention to Wayne, whose courage in sharing his own difficult journey was truly inspiring. His honesty opened the door for others to speak up, reach out, and realise they are not alone.

To everyone who organised, donated, and took part, you are amazing. Your kindness makes a real difference, and we couldn’t do what we do without people like you.

Meet Your Mates

Name: Andy O’Malley (Ambassador)
Location: Marlborough/Swindon
Hobbies: Running, playing pool, watching my kids play football and rugby
Fav food: Thai for the flavours or a medium/rare steak
Holiday destination: Thailand for its beaches and sunsets
Pet Hate: People who are late
Fun fact about myself: I love pushing myself to my limits with physical and mental challenges
Why I became a Mate: After my own personal struggles in 2022, I realised that people who are struggling in life really needed someone who has been through a similar situation to put an arm around them in their time of need. Best Mates allows me to do that
Area of Support (superpower): Understanding of Depression & Suicide
Best Thing About Being in Best Mates: Having the opportunity and platform to help people who are struggling in life. From the charity fundraising, Walk N Talks, acting as a Mate to various beneficiaries, I am fully aware how important being a Best Mate is.

Turning Support Into Real Impact

Here’s a snapshot of the impact we’ve made together up to 28th November 2025, showing how your support is changing lives.

Newsletter
1375 834 Carl McCulloch
October Newsletter

October Newsletter
Carl McCulloch
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Welcome to the October newsletter

If October was a golf term it would be Moving Day. New partnerships, more Mates, more beneficiaries, more support granted. We have moved the needle so much this month as our footprint grows across the UK and we are so grateful for the support of everyone.

Visit our site

A huge thank you to our 3 Peaks team

Andy Hughes, John Lewis, Andy O’Malley, Hen McEwan, Duncan Griffin, Mark Howarth and Carl McCulloch who, between them, raised a very impressive total of £5481.

Infinity Connect partners with Best Mates – #wegotya as Charity of the Year

We’re excited to announce that Infinity Connect has chosen to renew their partnership with Best Mates – #wegotya as their Charity of the Year through to the end of 2026!

Over the next year and a half, they’ll continue working closely with the team on a range of fundraising events, awareness campaigns, and volunteering opportunities, all aimed at amplifying our incredible work and making a real difference in our communities.

Infinity Connect Director, Julie Tooby, shared her excitement about the partnership:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have renewed our support for Best Mates – wegotya. They’re doing brilliant work for people facing life challenges, and we’re proud to help them grow their impact even further.”

Carl McCulloch, CEO and Co-Founder of Best Mates – wegotya, added:

“We’re delighted to align with Infinity Connect, an organisation that truly believes in our mission and takes its social responsibility seriously.”

Together, we’re looking forward to championing health, well-being, and positive change across our communities.

Chloe McNiven x Best Mates

Exciting News: Welcoming Our New Patron to Best Mates! 🎉

Carl and Chloe, plus Mark Howarth from MCH London and Simon Jones MBE, ex-International Cricketer

We are thrilled to announce that Chloe McNiven, fresh from securing her Guinness World Record for running an ultramarathon with her son in a pram, has joined Best Mates as our new Patron!

Chloe brings an incredible passion for our mission to support friendship, inclusion, and wellbeing in our community. With her long-standing commitment to health and wellbeing in general, she embodies the values that make Best Mates such a special organisation.

As Patron, Chloe will help champion our cause, raise awareness, and inspire others to get involved in creating a more connected and compassionate world.
We couldn’t be more excited to have Chloe join the Best Mates family. Please join us in giving a warm welcome and celebrating this wonderful partnership!

💙 Together, we’re making a difference

Best Mates Announces 2026 Partnership with Midlands Concrete Society

We’re excited to share that Best Mates – #wegotya will be partnering with the Midlands Concrete Society throughout 2026!

Both organisations share a strong commitment to collaboration, community, and making a positive impact, and this partnership marks an exciting new chapter for both teams.

Carl McCulloch, Co-Founder of Best Mates, said:

“We’re delighted to have joined forces with the Midlands Concrete Society for 2026. Their goals and values align perfectly with ours, and we’re looking forward to working together next year.”

The Midlands Concrete Society, known for advancing technical excellence in concrete design and application, sees the partnership as a way to bring fresh energy and purpose to its 2026 programme.

James Kilby, Chairperson of the Society, added:

“Even though 2026 hasn’t arrived yet, we’re already thrilled to partner with Best Mates – wegotya as our chosen charity. Their mission isn’t just a statement, it’s a real commitment to changing lives through financial, emotional, and practical support.”

The partnership officially launches in January 2026, with a series of joint events and initiatives planned throughout the year.

A Birthday to Remember 🎉

Saturday was one for the books as we joined MCH London to celebrate their incredible 7th birthday! From start to finish, the day was filled with energy, inspiration, and community spirit.

We’re honoured and thrilled that MCH has chosen Best Mates as their Charity of the Year, and we can’t wait for an amazing year ahead, working together to make a real difference.

The celebrations had it all: a delicious sit-down lunch, inspiring talks from Chloe McNiven and cricket legend Simon Jones MBE, and a fun-filled quiz and auction raising vital funds for Best Mates.

From L-R – Tony James (Infinity Connect), Carl McCulloch, Mark Howarth (MCH), Julie Tooby (Infinity Connect)
and Michael Ward (MWASR)

A huge thank you goes to Mark, MCH’s Founder and a long-time supporter of Best Mates, along with his fantastic team, for going above and beyond to make the day so special.

It was wonderful to see our Best Mates community come together; reconnecting, meeting new faces, and celebrating in such a meaningful way.

Look out for the fundraising total in next month’s newsletter.

Celebrating 10 Years of Black Nova Designs 💙

On Saturday 18th October, our Co-Founder Jeff Tucker had the pleasure of attending the 10th Birthday Celebration of one of our incredible local supporters, Black Nova Designs.

Founder Danielle Holmes has been an outstanding advocate for Best Mates since first meeting Jeff 18 months ago. Their ongoing commitment to raising awareness and funds, from their popular driving simulator challenges to choosing Best Mates as their charity beneficiary during their birthday raffle, truly reflects the spirit of community partnership we value so much.

The celebration took place at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon, where guests were also treated to an unforgettable talk by Jamie McAnsh. Jamie shared his remarkable journey, from losing mobility from the waist down overnight and facing his darkest moments, to ultimately achieving his childhood dream of climbing Mount Everest. His story of resilience and determination left everyone deeply moved and inspired.

Jeff opened the evening with a talk about why Best Mates exists, what we do, and how we’re supporting local communities. His words set the perfect tone for Jamie’s message of hope, courage, and overcoming adversity, a reminder of exactly why Best Mates continues to do what we do.

We’re starting 2026 with something special – Women Who Walk!

A new Best Mates event bringing women together to walk, connect, and support one another.

Join us for a 25km walk celebrating women’s strength and solidarity, in Swindon or wherever you are in the UK. Lace up, step out, and be part of something bigger.

📅 Saturday 10th January 2026
🕙 10am Start

Share your journey! Tag @BestMates_wegotya and use #WomenWhoWalk – we want to see your steps, smiles, and stories. Fundraising is optional; what matters most is walking together, just chatting and sharing.

Just Row With It chooses to support Best Mates as they Row the Atlantic!

We’re incredibly proud that Just Row With It has chosen Best Mates as one of the charities they’ll be supporting next winter, as they take on one of the world’s toughest challenges: rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic in the 2026 World’s Toughest Row. The team is also aiming to set a new world record as the youngest trio to complete the crossing.

Their spirit of friendship, resilience and support perfectly reflects what Best Mates stands for, and we’re honoured to be part of their incredible journey.

As Meg from the team shared, “After meeting Jeff and hearing how the charity steps in for people who feel completely alone, something clicked.

Best Mates isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about being there when someone’s at their lowest. No judgment. No agenda. Just mateship, when it matters most.”

We’ll be cheering them on every mile of the way. Learn more and show your support:

Learn More

Meet Your Mates

Name: Katie Tidy
Location: Stanford in the Vale. Oxfordshire.
Hobbies: Dancing, singing, entertaining in amateur dramatics, being creative, spending time in nature.
Fav food: Pizza
Holiday destination: Somewhere that adds a bit of peace to relax 😌
Pet Hate: Bullying.
Fun fact about myself: I did a wing walk this year, I run my own business as a wellness practitioner, I’m also a teaching assistant in a primary school.
Why I became a Mate: I have experienced some dark times in the past, and with my own experiences, I may be able to help others. Finding hope and strength when they feel they have nothing left to give. A listening ear when they need it.

Turning Support Into Real Impact

Here’s a snapshot of the impact we’ve made together up to 7th September 2025, showing how your support is changing lives.

Newsletter
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Best Mates Announces New Charity Partnership with MCH London

Best Mates Announces New Charity Partnership with MCH London
Carl McCulloch
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Best Mates, a charity committed to supporting people through challenging moments and being a helping hand in any crisis, is proud to announce a new partnership with MCH London, a leading full circle marketing agency.

The partnership will combine Best Mates’ passion for creating meaningful connections with MCH London’s expertise and resources, enabling the charity to raise awareness, expand its initiatives, and support even more people across the UK.

Through this collaboration, MCH London will provide strategic support, fundraising efforts, and creative campaigns designed to amplify the impact of Best Mates’ work. Together, the two organisations aim to bring communities closer and foster lasting positive change.

Carl McCulloch, CEO of Best Mates, said: “This is an exciting partnership because MCH are fully supportive of our mission, and their whole team are behind what we are trying to achieve.”

Mark Howarth, Founder of MCH London, added: “Best Mates is a young and dynamic charity trying to change people’s lives through lived experience. As a company, we believe in what they are doing and look forward to supporting them on their journey.”

The partnership officially launches 1st October with several joint initiatives planned throughout the coming year.

For more information, please visit:
www.bestmates.org | www.mch.london

Charity News Partners
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September Newsletter

September Newsletter
Carl McCulloch
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Welcome to the September newsletter and what a month it’s been!

We have seen so many activities going on and it’s so exciting to see the growth of Best Mates.

Chew Events created an amazing golf day for us, we’ve taken on nearly a dozen new beneficiaries, joined forces with four new support partners, our Walk and Talk groups are about to grow exponentially with new sites popping up across the southwest, and just this week our incredible team took on the challenge of all challenges by climbing the 3 Peaks in 24 hours!

Be sure to check out our website for the coming events that you can be involved in.

Visit our site

Corporate Partnership

Best Mates #wegotya named Charity of the Year by the advertising agency, MCH London

We are delighted to announce our newest corporate partnership as we join forces with MCH London. The collaboration will focus on raising awareness of our mission to ensure no one faces life’s challenges alone, while also generating vital funds.

Carl McCulloch of Best Mates shared:
​“This is an exciting partnership because MCH are fully supportive of our mission, and their whole team are behind what we are trying to achieve.”

Mark Howarth, Founder of MCH, added:
​“Best Mates is a young and dynamic charity trying to change people’s lives through lived experience. As a company, we believe in what they are doing and look forward to supporting them on their journey.”

Together, Best Mates and MCH London are committed to making a positive impact, empowering people through shared strength and support.

Saturday, 18th October, is a big fundraising day for Best Mates!

Join us in London at the MCH London x Best Mates charity party.

From 12 noon to 4pm, you are invited to join a celebration of MCH London, its people, charity work, and our new collaboration.

Enjoy a champagne reception and sit-down three-course lunch, a quiz featuring a celebrity Quizmaster, appearances of an Ashes 2005 winner and an ultra marathon, world-record breaking mum, plus several games, a prize draw and a live auction to raise funds for Best Mates.

Grab an early bird ticket by clicking the link below. Each ticket includes a £35 donation to Best Mates.

Visit our site

Then back in Swindon, and not to be missed, the Black Nova 10th Anniversary Party from 7pm!
⁠
If you’d like to be part of something meaningful (and have a great night out while you’re at it), come and celebrate with us! Use the link below to learn more and snap up tickets before they sell out.⁠

Visit our site

How so little goes a long way

As a small charity, our lifeblood is funding and giving. As the nation faces a difficult time financially, ongoing and repeat giving is always difficult to ask for, but is vital.

Just £10 per month will help us keep our essential Walk ‘n’ Talk programmes going and growing. These programmes are so important to people across the country as it gives them the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, possibly in a similar situation.

Where does your money go

£500 will give someone 10 hours of therapy and support
£900 will put someone through an alcohol or drug rehabilitation programme
£1500 will reintegrate a veteran into society
​
If you are able to give any amount regularly, you could change someone’s life immeasurably. Nobody should have to go through life’s challenges alone, so together we can make sure that never happens!
​
​Best Mates #wegotya

Donate Now

Meet Your Mates

Name: Emma Matlock
Location: Cricklade
Hobbies: Spending time with my girls, family & playing golf
Favourite Food: ⁠⁠Mexican food
Holiday Destination: Jamaica
Pet Hate: Lateness & rudeness
Fun / Interesting Fact About Yourself: I can do an unassisted headstand
Why You Became A Mate: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Having been through some very dark, lonely times, I’ve come out the other side smiling again. I want to help others do the same by relating to them and not making them feel alone.
Area of Support: Alcoholism, addiction, anxiety, divorce, and single parenting.

One Night Can Change Lives – Sign Up for the CEO Sleepout Today

Our very own Jeff Tucker and Corine Paul are taking part in the CEO Sleepout again this year on the 17th November in Bristol, and we’re looking for 10 people to join them.

Last year’s event was eye-opening, offering a glimpse into the harsh reality faced by those forced to sleep outdoors on cold winter nights. Homelessness isn’t just about losing a roof; it takes a heavy toll on people’s mental and physical health.

At Best Mates, we’re proud to support the cause. Through donations from HERA, we’ve raised vital funds and distributed essential clothing to local charities helping those in need.

Now we’re asking you to step up, sleep out, and make a difference. Just one night away from your warm bed can bring hope to others and give you a new sense of perspective and gratitude.

Join Jeff and Corrine in supporting the CEO Sleepout. Register your interest by emailing jeff.tucker@bestmates.org today!

Sleep out, wake up, change lives

Turning Support Into Real Impact

Here’s a snapshot of the impact we’ve made together up to 7th August 2025, showing how your support is changing lives.

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Charity Trustee Wanted – Corporate Engagement

Charity Trustee Wanted – Corporate Engagement
Carl McCulloch
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Job Title: Trustee – Corporate Engagement
Charity: Best Mates – WeGotYa
Location: Remote Working
Time Commitment: Approx. 6 board meetings per year, plus networking and advocacy work
Term: 2 years

About Best Mates – WeGotYa

Best Mates – WeGotYa is a community-driven charity dedicated to supporting people facing tough life challenges, including mental health struggles, family breakdown, and isolation. Our mission is to be a helping hand in any crisis.

We’re growing fast and looking for an engaged, connected, and committed Trustee to help us take our impact to the next level.

Role Purpose

We’re seeking a Trustee with strong corporate relationships who will be directly accountable for making high-value introductions to businesses and potential partners. You’ll help us unlock funding, build partnerships, and raise awareness within the business world — supporting our mission with your influence and networks.

Key Responsibilities

  • Corporate Introductions: Actively use your professional network to introduce Best Mates – WeGotYa to corporate decision-makers (CSR leads, HR teams, business owners, etc.).
  • Fundraising Support: Collaborate with the team to help turn introductions into sponsorships, donations, or pro bono support.
  • Strategic Input: Advise the board on trends in corporate social responsibility and partnership opportunities.
  • Advocacy: Be a visible and vocal ambassador for Best Mates – WeGotYa in your sector and beyond.
  • Governance: Fulfil all statutory duties of a charity trustee and contribute to effective governance.

What Success Looks Like

You will be accountable for:

  • Delivering a target number of qualified corporate introductions per year (agreed with the Founders).
  • Supporting relationship-building post-introduction where appropriate.
  • Reporting quarterly to the board on corporate outreach and progress.

Who You Are

  • A well-connected professional with a strong network in business or corporate sectors.
  • Experienced in fundraising, sponsorships, or business development (desirable).
  • Passionate about making a difference for young people.
  • Proactive, reliable, and results-driven.
  • Comfortable being held accountable and delivering on commitments.
  • Prior trustee experience is welcome, but not essential.

Why Join Us?

  • Be part of something powerful and purpose-driven.
  • Use your network to create real social impact.
  • Join a passionate, informal, and supportive board culture.
  • Help shape the future of a growing youth charity with heart.

Interested?

If you think you’ve got the network, commitment, and heart to support Best Mates – WeGotYa, we’d love to hear from you. Apply by emailing jeff.tucker@bestmates.org

Charity News
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Infinity Connect Names Best Mates – wegotya as Charity of the Year

Infinity Connect Names Best Mates – wegotya as Charity of the Year
Carl McCulloch
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Partnership to people and communities facing life challenges through to the end of 2025

Infinity Connect is proud to announce a new charitable partnership with Best Mates – wegotya, naming the nonprofit its official Charity of the Year through to the end of 2025. This exciting collaboration reflects Infinity Connect’s ongoing commitment to making a positive impact in the communities it serves.

Best Mates – wegotya is a young and dynamic charity dedicated to supporting people with life challenges, building resilience, and promoting well-being through peer-to-peer support, outreach, and education.

As part of the partnership, Infinity Connect will be working closely with Best Mates on a range of fundraising, awareness, and volunteering initiatives designed to amplify the charity’s reach and strengthen the support offered to young people across the region.

Julie Tooby, Director of Infinity Connect, expressed her enthusiasm about the new partnership: We’re absolutely thrilled to be supporting Best Mates – wegotya as our Charity of the Year. They are a brilliant new charity doing truly incredible work for people facing a number of life challenges. We’ve already seen the difference they make on the ground, and we’re proud to play a part in helping them grow their impact even further.”

Carl McCulloch, CEO and Co-Founder, said “we are delighted to have aligned ourselves with Infinity Connect as an organisation that believes in our work and takes their CSR responsibilities very seriously”.

The agreement, which runs until December 2025, will see both organisations joining forces to champion health and well-being—areas of critical importance to both partners.

For enquiries, please contact:
Carl McCulloch
carl.mcculloch@bestmates.org
0300 3036283

Charity News Partners
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