Charity Hall of Fame Honours LGBTQ+ Changemakers Across Generations in Class of 2026

EMBARGOED UNTIL 00:01, 30 APRIL 2026

Charity Hall of Fame has announced the induction of four influential LGBTQ+ changemakers as part of its Class of 2026, recognising their lasting contribution to equality, community and social change across the UK.

The 2026 inductees include Lady Phyll, founder of UK Black Pride and the Executive Director of DIVA Charitable Trust; Mark Ashton, founder of Lesbians & Gays Support the Miners; Martyn Butler OBE, co-founder of the Terrence Higgins Trust and Pearl Alcock, a Brixton community figure who created one of London’s earliest safe spaces for Black LGBTQ+ communities.

They join Tyler Hatwell, founder of Traveller Pride, who was inducted in 2025, reflecting Charity Hall of Fame’s ongoing commitment to recognising social impact leadership in all its diversity.

Together, these inductees represent different generations of activism and community organising, from early grassroots safe spaces and solidarity movements to national campaigns for visibility, inclusion and public health.

Lady Phyll founded UK Black Pride in 2005 to create a space for Black and racially minoritised LGBTQ+ communities who often felt excluded from mainstream Pride events. Today, UK Black Pride is the world’s largest celebration of its kind, combining culture, visibility and political advocacy.

Mark Ashton’s leadership during the 1984 miner's strike helped forge a historic alliance between LGBTQ+ activists and mining communities. Through Lesbians & Gays Support the Miners he demonstrated the power of solidarity across social divides, a legacy that continues to resonate today.

Martyn Butler OBE was the co-founder of the Terrence Higgins Trust. Established in the 1980s at a time of fear, stigma and limited public understanding, the charity was the first in the UK to help transform the UK’s response to HIV/AIDS, offering support, public education and a compassionate approach to care.

Pearl Alcock played a quieter but no less significant role in queer history. In 1970s Brixton, she created an informal social space that became one of the earliest known safe places for Black LGBTQ+ people in London, offering belonging and sanctuary at a time of widespread racism and homophobia.

Jamie Ward-Smith, Founder of Charity Hall of Fame, said:
“These four inductees remind us that LGBTQ+ history is not a single story. It is a story of courage, care, resistance, creativity and community. From building safe spaces to challenging stigma and standing in solidarity with others, each of these Inductees has helped shape a fairer and more inclusive society. We are proud to honour their contribution.”

Malcolm John, Chair of the Charity Hall Induction Panel, said:
“The Panel was struck by the depth and range of impact represented by the Inductees. They span different generations, communities and forms of activism, but all have made a profound difference. Their induction reflects Charity Hall of Fame’s commitment to recognising LGBTQ+ changemakers whose work has left a lasting impact on society.”

Founded in 2024 to celebrate community changemakers, Charity Hall of Fame recognises individuals whose work has delivered lasting social impact and creates a lasting public record of their contribution.

The Class of 2026 will be formally announced on 30 April 2026 via the Charity Hall of Fame website.

For more information, visit: https://www.charityhall.org