Action Deafness CEO recognised in King’s Birthday Honours
Action Deafness CEO recognised in King’s Birthday Honours
Action Deafness is delighted to announce that its Chief Executive Officer, Craig Crowley, has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in The King’s Birthday Honours 2026 for services to Deaf and Deafblind people.
Craig has dedicated more than 30 years to advancing opportunities, accessibility, equality and inclusion for Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing people across the UK and internationally.
As CEO of Action Deafness for over 20 years, Craig has led the organisation through significant growth and transformation, expanding specialist services and strengthening support for Deaf communities across England and Wales. He also served as the inaugural Co-Chair of the British Sign Language Advisory Board from 2022 to 2025, helping to shape advice and recommendations to Government following the introduction of the British Sign Language (BSL) Act 2022.
Responding to the honour, Craig said:
“I feel truly humbled and honoured to receive this recognition.
I have always said this award is never about one individual. It reflects the collective efforts of so many people who have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Deaf and Deafblind people over many years.
I would like to thank my family, colleagues, trustees, the BSL Advisory Board, stakeholders, partners, volunteers and the many Deaf and Deafblind people whose experiences, resilience and determination continue to inspire me every day.
Most importantly, this recognition belongs to the wider Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing communities. Together, we have shown what can be achieved when Deaf and Deafblind people are empowered to lead, influence and shape their own futures.”
Action Deafness Chair of Trustees, Alison Lewis, said:
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we are absolutely delighted that Craig’s leadership, commitment and service have been recognised through this prestigious honour.
For more than two decades he has championed Deaf-led approaches, strengthened our organisation and inspired countless people across the Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing community. This recognition is richly deserved.”
Everyone at Action Deafness extends their warmest congratulations to Craig on this well-deserved honour.
About Action Deafness
Action Deafness is a leading Deaf-led organisation dedicated to supporting Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing people across the UK. Through a range of specialist services and support, we strive to empower our community, promote accessibility and inclusivity. For more information, please visit: actiondeafness.org.uk
Media Contact:
Charlotte Jefferies, People Executive, Action Deafness: [email protected]
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