AN organisation dedicated to breaking down barriers tackling stigma and overcoming prejudice has been shortlisted for a national award.

Breakdown Bolton is in the running for a National Diversity Award (NDA) in the ceremony being held today at the stunning Liverpool Cathedral.

The awards, backed by some of the biggest names on television including Graham Norton and Stephen Fry, are designed to showcase the outstanding achievements of those who have devoted their time and passion to enhancing equality, diversity and inclusion in today's society.

Breakdown Bolton was only founded in 2016 to tackle stigma, prejudice and barriers surrounding mental health through the arts and high level creativity. This idea soon grew meaning it would tackle stigma and prejudice towards other groups who faced discrimination in the community such as the LGBT community and women, amongst others.

It has been shortlisted in the Community Organisation Disability category.

More than 22,000 nominations and votes were received this year, paying tribute to grass root communities nationwide. The black tie event is designed to recognise excellence regardless of race, faith, religion, gender, identity, sexual orientation, aged, disability and culture.

Graham Norton said: "Promoting and celebrating diversity is close to my heart which is why I am thrilled to support The National Diversity Awards! I want to wish all of this year’s shortlisted nominees the best of luck for the ceremony, you all deserve to win!"

The group said it never expected "to be nominated, let alone shortlisted, so this has come as a massive surprise.

A spokesman for the organisation said: "We are incredibly happy to be nominated for an NDA award especially so soon after we formed Breakdown Bolton itself.

"In the past nine months we have worked with many fantastic groups As an entirely peer led and run group we are passionate about working with those groups who experience stigma in a creative and meaningful way, working toward our goal of providing empowerment through art.

"If we are lucky enough to win this week hopefully it will raise awareness, increase the amount of people and projects we can work with and help us change the world, starting with our home town that we’re very proud to be a part of."