COMMENDEE 2025-26: Originally nominated by a prisoner for the mental health peer-support group he set up, Custodial Manager Brendon gets a Commendation for his contribution, through his leadership and dedication, to the safety and wellbeing of both prisoners and staff right across HMP Dovegate.

This nomination was drawn up by Rebecca Blockley – Senior Project Manager, HMP Dovegate; and signed off by Scott Newey – Deputy Director, HMP Dovegate. It followed an initial recommendation from Prisoner, C T.

Introduction

I would like to nominate Officer Brendon for a Butler Trust Award in recognition of his exceptional commitment to mental health and prisoner wellbeing at HMP Dovegate. Brendon went above and beyond to support the creation of a mental health support group on P Wing, ensuring everything was in place and never treating anything as too much trouble. His belief in rehabilitation through compassion has transformed lives. Thanks to his encouragement and leadership, the group now provides a safe, supportive space for men to open up, reduce self-harm, and support each other—something that simply wouldn’t exist without Brendon’s dedication.

Reasons for the nomination

Brendon went above and beyond to support me in setting up a mental health support group on P Wing. Nothing was too much hassle—he supported me every step of the way and made it clear that he genuinely cared about how we, as prisoners, were feeling. He listened, encouraged, and made things happen. Without his help, this group wouldn’t exist.

He didn’t just say the right things—he followed through. He put time and effort into making sure we had a space, that we were supported, and that the right procedures were in place. Most importantly, he treated the group and its purpose with real respect. That meant a lot.

Brendon is someone who truly wants to help people, and he does it without expecting praise. He sees us as people, not just prisoners. He always makes time to check in and make sure everything is running smoothly, and he takes our mental health seriously.

Each week, the group welcomes around 15 to 20 men. We sit down and talk openly about how we’re feeling, what we’re struggling with, and we work together to support each other. It’s created a space where people feel safe, where they aren’t judged, and where they know someone will listen. That kind of space is rare in prison, and it’s made a huge difference on the wing.

Brendon also put me through Mental Health Ambassador training, which means I’m now a go-to person for others who are struggling. I help them manage their emotions and signpost them to further support when needed. That kind of trust and responsibility has given me confidence and purpose.

I have no doubt that, without Brendon’s help, self-harm rates would be higher on the wing. The group acts as an early intervention. It gives people an outlet before things get worse. It also helps reduce the pressure on other services, like healthcare and Safer Custody, because people are getting peer support that’s consistent and genuine.

Brendon never looks for recognition, but what he’s done has had a lasting impact. He’s helped create something positive that keeps growing, and his support has empowered prisoners to take care of their own mental health and support others too. His attitude, patience, and belief in the power of change make him stand out.

He is one of the few people I’ve met inside who truly walks the walk when it comes to care and rehabilitation. That’s why I believe he deserves this nomination.

Support for the nomination

“I am pleased to provide this supporting testament for Brendon Cotterill who is as a Custodial Manager in Safer Custody within the prison environment.
Brendon has demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of both staff and prisoners. His comprehensive understanding of prison safety, risk assessment, and crisis management has contributed significantly to creating a safer environment within the establishment.
Brendon excels at working collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams, including security staff, healthcare professionals, and external agencies, to implement effective strategies aimed at reducing self-harm, violence, and other safeguarding concerns. His approach is both compassionate and pragmatic, balancing the need for security with respect for human dignity.
One of the key strengths Brendon displays is his ability to manage complex and sensitive situations calmly and efficiently. He is adept at identifying potential risks early and initiating appropriate interventions, which has directly contributed to improved safety metrics and reduced incidents.
Furthermore, Brendon actively promotes staff training and awareness around safer custody issues, fostering a culture of vigilance and continuous improvement. his integrity, resilience, and ethical approach to the role inspire confidence and trust among colleagues and stakeholders alike.
In summary, Brendon is an invaluable asset to any custodial setting, bringing a wealth of knowledge, a proactive attitude, and unwavering dedication to safer custody. I fully support their continued role in this critical area and have no doubt they will continue to make a positive impact.”
Emma Taylor, Head of Safety, HMP Dovegate

Sign off

This was a fantastic initiative from Brendon, who has overseen the full implementation of it. Supporting those who are most vulnerable in prison environments to have a safe space to talk.

Scott Newey, Deputy Director, HMP Dovegate