Jim Cassidy, who volunteers with Men Matter Scotland in Drumchapel, received the honour at the Scottish Charity Awards 2026 during a ceremony celebrating the achievements of the voluntary sector.
The event, held on Thursday, June 11, at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow, was hosted by Sally Magnusson and organised by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO).
Jim first engaged with Men Matter Scotland while struggling with his own mental health challenges.
Through their classes and peer support, he experienced what the charity described as a “life-changing improvement” and began volunteering to give back.
He now helps deliver support at the Drumchapel hub three days a week, offering a listening ear to men in crisis, supporting outreach activities, and helping deliver the charity’s prison programmes.
Mr Cassidy has also earned several mental health qualifications and now mentors others as part of the organisation’s peer support model.
Men Matter Scotland supports men through peer-led wellbeing programmes, practical advice, and group activities.
Mr Cassidy is often the first point of contact for new service users, offering reassurance and practical support.
The Scottish Charity Awards celebrate outstanding contributions across Scotland’s third sector, from individuals and grassroots projects to large-scale organisations.
The 2026 shortlist featured 35 individuals and organisations working across a diverse range of causes.
Winners across the nine categories included Victim Support Scotland for Campaign of the Year and Crail Community Partnership for the Climate Impact award.
Men Matter Scotland continues to support more than 500 men each week through its Drumchapel hub and wider outreach work.
Mr Cassidy’s journey from service user to Volunteer of the Year stands as a testament to the power of peer support and the impact of second chances.
Jamie Rutherford, director of Men Matter Scotland, said: “At Men Matter Scotland, we have over 30 volunteers that help us run the hub and deliver lifesaving support to men at the point of suicide.
“We couldn’t do it without volunteers like Jim, who came through the doors as men in crisis and whose support is now critical to us providing peer-led support to more than 500 guys each week.
“We’re delighted for Jim to have won this award, it’s a testament to him as a person and shows how far it is possible to come from our darkest places to living in the light.”
Anna Fowlie, chief executive of SCVO, said: “What a fantastic event to recognise the accomplishments of organisations and individuals throughout Scotland’s voluntary sector.
“Our finalists and winners are outstanding examples of the incredible impact made possible through the dedication of those who work and volunteer within charities, community organisations and social enterprises.
“Congratulations to all of the finalists and winners. I’m already excited to see what 2027 has in store.”
Shirley-Anne Somerville, social justice secretary, said: “Congratulations to all of this year’s Scottish Charity Awards winners and finalists.
“The work being celebrated tonight demonstrates the extraordinary difference that charities make to communities right across Scotland every single day.
“The Scottish Government is proud to stand alongside Scotland’s third sector.”
