Recently, we had the privilege of sponsoring and attending the Developing Health & Independence Client Achievement Awards – an afternoon that was both humbling and deeply inspiring.
The event shone a light on the remarkable achievements of individuals who have faced immense challenges, overcome them, and who are now helping others on their journey to recovery. Each story shared was a moving reminder of courage, hope, and the power of community.

DHI’s founder, Rosie Phillips, shared a message that summed up the work that the organisation does:
“We support people who are often unheard, marginalised or considered ‘undeserving’ by society – despite lives shaped by poverty, adversity or trauma.”
Those words resonated throughout the afternoon, a reflection of DHI’s commitment to providing understanding, dignity, and opportunity for those often left unheard.
Among those honoured were:
- Ken Nicholas, recipient of the David Miell Award for Personal Achievement, recognised for his remarkable journey through mental health recovery.
- The South Gloucestershire Peer Mentoring Team, winners of the Contribution to the Community Award for their vital support of others in recovery.
- Frazer Simmons, winner of the Cookie McBride Award for Optimism and Resilience, celebrated for turning his life around and giving back to his community.
More than a celebration of achievement, the awards highlighted how empathy and support really can help people rebuild their lives.

The awards were presented by Martin Buckland, Chief Executive of Marlin Communications:
“Today has been an incredibly humbling experience,” said Martin. “It’s a real privilege to be here alongside DHI’s dedicated team and the individuals whose lives they’ve helped transform. The stories shared today are a testament to the strength of the human spirit – and to DHI’s remarkable work empowering people to turn their experiences into hope and support for others.”
Our congratulations and thanks to everyone at DHI for such an inspiring event. We look forward to continuing our support & sponsorship in 2026 and beyond.
About Marlin Communications
Marlin Communications is an award-winning, single-source provider of business communications & collaboration solutions including voice, data, mobile, video, network security and contact centre technology for businesses of 50 – 5,000 staff.
We operate throughout the UK – with global reach – and our own, on-premises, 1,000 ft² Technology Suite at our Bath office, where we host regular events and showcase technology solutions for our clients. Contact us for your free comms audit or product demo.
Marlin Communications is ISO 27001 certified by BSI under certificate number IS795313.
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