New DR UK Board Member Vicci Livingstone-Thompson awarded BEM
"WE are delighted to congratulate Vicci Livingstone, CEO of Inclusion Gloucestershire, on being awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s New Year Honours for 2025. This prestigious recognition celebrates Vicci’s remarkable contributions to mental health and the rights of Disabled people in Gloucestershire and beyond. Her commitment to inclusion and equality aligns perfectly with the values of Disability Rights UK, and we are thrilled that she will be joining our board of trustees this month."
Vicci’s leadership at Inclusion Gloucestershire exemplifies the power of working collectively to drive meaningful change. As she so humbly noted in her own words, the BEM is not just a reflection of her individual efforts but of the incredible work of the entire Inclusion Gloucestershire team. Together, they have built a vision of a world where Disabled people can thrive, achieve their potential, and live without barriers – a vision that we at Disability Rights UK share and work tirelessly to achieve.
Beyond her professional achievements, Vicci brings a profoundly personal and intersectional perspective to her work. She has been open about the privilege and responsibility that comes with being in a leadership role and about her thoughtful decision to accept the honour. Her reflections on the underrepresentation of Disabled people in the honours system – despite being 22% of the population, only 8% of recent recipients were Disabled – underscore the broader inequalities that persist in society. Vicci’s acceptance of the BEM is a powerful statement that highlights the value, strength, and contributions of Disabled people whose achievements often go unrecognised.
Vicci’s vision of a world where Disabled people’s leadership, education, and achievements are seen as the norm rather than the exception resonates strongly with our mission at Disability Rights UK. Her advocacy for anti-racism and inclusion, alongside her commitment to coproduction and equity, will undoubtedly bring new energy and insight to our board. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to champion the rights and voices of Disabled people across the UK.
At Disability Rights UK, we know that the inclusion of diverse perspectives is essential to creating a truly equal society. Vicci’s passion, expertise, and collaborative spirit will be a tremendous asset to our organisation as we tackle systemic inequalities, promote the rights of Disabled people, and strive to build a society where everyone can participate fully.
On behalf of everyone at Disability Rights UK, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Vicci on this well-deserved honour. Her humility, determination, and unwavering commitment to inclusion inspire me. As she joins our board, I look forward to working together to create lasting change and ensure that the potential and achievements of all Disabled people are recognised and celebrated.
Congratulations and welcome to the team, Vicci! I am excited for the journey ahead.
Kamran Mallick
CEO