Social Interest Group’s CEO Gill Arukpe has been awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list in recognition of her remarkable 46-year career in the charity sector.
Her dedication and tireless efforts have significantly impacted the lives of countless vulnerable individuals, particularly those experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges.
Gill has been recognised for her work at Shelter, where for 17 years she championed the rights of homeless individuals. She continued this work at Novas Scarman Group and then at Turning Point, focusing on mental health and substance abuse support. Her first CEO role was at Penrose Options in 2009 which demonstrated her leadership for social justice and community development.
In 2014, as the founding CEO of the Social Interest Group, Gill began building an organisation that supports a wider network of charities in their mission to provide essential services to vulnerable people. 10 years on, Social Interest Group continues to offer strategic support and delivers impactful services through its subsidiary front-line charities. Gill has been a vocal advocate for the homeless and those with mental health issues, with campaigns to raise awareness that have driven policy changes to address these issues.
Gill Arukpe said: ‘Homelessness and mental health are now at chronic levels. We must continue to work together to find sustainable solutions and provide the necessary support to those in need.’
Dr Karl Marlowe, Chairman of Social Interest Group said: ‘Gill’s MBE is a testament to her unwavering commitment and the profound impact of her lifetime’s work. Gill’s legacy in the charity sector is one of resilience, and relentless advocacy for the most vulnerable of society.’
This blog was originally published by The Social Interest Group.
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