The Huntington Disease Association is proud to announce that Cath Stanley, Chief Executive, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours 2025 for her services to people affected by Huntington’s disease.

Cath has dedicated the last 30 years to improving the lives of those affected by the disease. During that time, she has transformed the charity from a small, family-focused organisation into a national voice for Huntington’s disease, now with a team of 53 staff covering England and Wales.   

A leading advocate for people affected by Huntington’s, anyone who has worked with Cath knows her tenacious spirit in creating change for anyone who has to live in the shadow of Huntington's disease. 

Cath is an inspirational figure in the Huntington’s disease community. Under her leadership, the charity has made significant progress in raising awareness, improving access to vital services, and ensuring that the voices of those affected by Huntington’s disease are central to national policy and research. This includes successfully lobbying the NHS and government for enhanced mental health support, as well as securing funding that allows the charity to expand its reach and work with more individuals. She has actively ensured that people with lived experience are at the heart of research and decision-making and has represented the charity on strategic committees to influence long-term change, as evidenced by her most recent role as Chair of the Neurological Alliance.

Cath said,

 “I am extremely honoured to receive this award from His Majesty. It is a privilege to work alongside the Huntington’s disease community, a community whose resilience and determination inspire me every single day. This recognition is not just for me but for every individual and family facing Huntington’s disease.”

Cath will receive her medal from the Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside and will be invited to celebrate her achievement later in the year at a garden party at Buckingham Palace.

For media enquiries, interviews, or further information about Cath’s work or the Huntington’s Disease Association, please contact Vicki Rutland 07841 037625 or email vicki.rutland@hda.org.uk