MasterTasker LIVE will make its Milton Keynes debut later this month, as local business figures step forward to support mental health provision across the region.
The event, organised by the Arthur Ellis Mental Health Foundation, will take place at MK Gallery on 23 April. It aims to bring together the Milton Keynes business community for an evening of informal networking and fundraising.
Four well-known local figures — Odette Mould MBE, Gamiel Yafai MBE, Dr Julie Mills OBE and Sarah Thorne — will compete in a series of light-hearted challenges inspired by television format Taskmaster. The format combines pre-recorded tasks with a live finale, designed to engage the audience while raising awareness of mental health services.
The charity, founded by Jon Manning, supports around 3,500 families each year by providing rapid access to mental health mentoring. Crucially, the organisation focuses on early intervention, working with schools, employers and community groups to prevent issues escalating.
Jon said the event reflects a broader shift in how charities engage with business audiences. He said: “This is about raising awareness of what we’re doing locally and what can be achieved when organisations work together. If we want long-term, sustainable support for those who need it, we also need to engage people in a way that feels accessible.”
He added that backing from headline sponsor Howes Percival has helped bring the concept to Milton Keynes, positioning the event as both a networking opportunity and a platform for social impact.
In addition, each participant is linked to an individual fundraising page, with audience support influencing the final stage of the competition. The format is designed to encourage wider community involvement beyond the event itself.
The Arthur Ellis Mental Health Foundation, established as a charity in 2024, is building a national model focused on reducing waiting times for support. Its services are open to individuals aged eight and above, with referrals often seen within days.
As demand for mental health services continues to rise, events such as MasterTasker LIVE highlight the growing role of the business community in supporting local wellbeing initiatives.
Tickets for the event are available online.
