Cath received the award in honour of her services to people affected by Huntington’s disease.

The award really is for the amazing families we support. You are the inspiration.

On Friday, 21 November, Cath Stanley was presented with her British Empire Medal (BEM) from the Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside in a ceremony held at Southport Town Hall.

Cath has been dedicated to the Huntington's Disease Association for over 30 years, and has been Chief Executive for over 12 years. In that time, Cath has overseen the charity grow into a team of 51 people, all dedicated to making a difference to people affected by Huntington’s disease.

Professor Hugh Rickards, Chair of the Huntington's Disease Association, said,

I'm so proud of Cath for her BEM award.  She continues to work tirelessly for the Huntington’s Disease Association and has nurtured an amazing organisation that is well positioned for the future. Congratulations to her from me on behalf of all of the trustees of the Huntington’s Disease Association.

Cath was elected Chair of the Neurological Alliance in 2023, a coalition of over 80 organisations in England dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by neurological conditions.  

Georgina Carr, Chief Executive of The Neurological Alliance said,

Cath is one of the most dedicated, principled and tireless leaders in our community, and this honour is a brilliant reflection of her impact. Her commitment to improving the lives of people affected by Huntington’s disease is unwavering, and she brings that same passion and clarity to her role as Chair of The Neurological Alliance. On behalf of the Alliance, I am absolutely delighted to congratulate Cath on this richly deserved recognition. We are incredibly proud to work alongside her.

Cath is passionate about making a difference to people with Huntington's. Anyone who works with Cath knows she lives up to every one of the organisation’s values! Tenacious, experienced, compassionate and inspirational.

When the award was announced, hundreds of people took to Facebook to comment on how deserving Cath was of the award. One community member, Sally said,

Congratulations Cath, this is a testament to your hard work and dedication to helping people with Huntington's disease. A most deserved award, absolutely thrilled that your hard work and dedication to the Huntington's Disease community worldwide has been recognised.

Everyone at the Huntington’s Disease Association is extremely proud of her and the work she does to make a difference to those affected by Huntington’s disease.

Cath's award presentation