Our CEO, Philip Gerrard, awarded an MBE for services to the deaf community
Deaf Action is delighted to announce that our CEO, Philip Gerrard, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the New Year Honours List. This honour recognises his significant contribution to the deaf community, cultural inclusion, and disability rights throughout his career.
Philip has spent many years championing equality, improving access and ensuring that deaf people and BSL users are recognised, respected and included. Under his leadership, Deaf Action has strengthened its role as a trusted, values-driven, deaf-led organisation, delivering vital services and pushing for positive change across Scotland and the UK.
About the award, Philip said:
“I am deeply grateful to the person who took the time and care to nominate me. This recognition reflects the collective efforts of many people working to advance deaf equality, cultural inclusion and disability rights, and I am proud to have played a small part alongside them.”
Rosie Addis, Chairperson of Deaf Action, said: “We are incredibly proud to see Philip’s contribution recognised at this level. His commitment to the deaf community and to building a more inclusive society is evident in everything he does. This honour is very well deserved.”
The award recognises the values that drive Philip’s leadership at Deaf Action. His focus on inclusion, cultural identity and meaningful collaboration has shaped his approach to supporting deaf people and the organisations that serve them.
All of us at Deaf Action are incredibly proud of Philip’s achievement and grateful for his continued leadership.
Congratulations, Philip, on this well-deserved recognition.
You can see the full 2026 New Year Honours List here.
