New Lord Mayor highlights importance of local charities during meeting with The Brain Charity

The newly sworn-in Lord Mayor, Councillor William Shortall, met with Matt Meaney, the recently appointed Chief Executive of The Brain Charity.

Discussing their shared priorities and commitment to strengthening support for communities across Liverpool as they each embark on their new roles. 

The meeting took place less than 48 hours after the Lord Mayor’s swearing-in ceremony, highlighting an early commitment to collaboration, accessibility and inclusion, and the vital role the third sector plays in helping people access essential services and opportunities across the city region. 

The Lord Mayor later joined The Brain Charity at its Norton Street centre on Wednesday 20 May for the organisation’s annual Head Matters event. The Charity’s flagship event was focused this year on mental health, exploring how neurological conditions can affect emotional wellbeing, confidence, relationships, and daily life, while showcasing the support and community available to those who need it. It brought together other charities, arts organisations, and expert speakers. 

The Brain Charity was founded in Liverpool more than 30 years ago to support people living with neurological conditions, helping bridge the gap between clinical support and independent living. Today, the charity provides information, advice, advocacy and practical support to people across the Liverpool City Region and nationally, from its Norton Street centre in the heart of the city. 

Lord Mayor, Cllr William Shortall, said: 

“As Lord Mayor of Liverpool, I am proud to stand firmly alongside our city’s remarkable charities, whose work transforms lives every single day. Liverpool has always been a city built on compassion, and it is through organisations such as The Brain Charity and many others that we continue to champion dignity, opportunity, and hope for all.

Accessibility and inclusion must never be seen as optional extras—they are fundamental rights. Every individual, regardless of ability or circumstance, deserves to participate fully in our communities, our workplaces, and our cultural life.

I wholeheartedly support the ongoing efforts of charities across Liverpool and beyond who are breaking down barriers, raising awareness, and ensuring that no one is left behind. Together, we must continue to build a fairer, more inclusive society—one where everyone’s potential is recognised and valued.

Liverpool leads by example, and I am honoured to lend my voice in support of these vital causes.”

Matt Meaney, CEO of The Brain Charity, said:

“It was a great honour to meet privately with the new Lord Mayor less than 48 hours after his swearing-in ceremony. Relationships between third sector organisations and civic leaders are vital in ensuring the sector has the prominence and influence it deserves around decision-making tables. It was inspiring to hear how highly the Lord Mayor values our local third sector and how his own experience on committees and boards has shaped this commitment.”

“The Brain Charity is at a pivotal moment as we begin work on our new five-year strategy and consult widely with stakeholders in the months ahead. Knowing our work is valued by leaders and decision-makers in our city gives us confidence as we look to do even more for our service users.”

Both leaders highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between civic leadership and the voluntary sector to improve accessibility, champion inclusion and ensure people living with neurological conditions receive the support they need. 

Find out more about The Brain Charity here.

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