Former Wakefield Hospice Director of Income Generation, Helen Mack DL (formerly Knowles), has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026 in recognition for services to hospice care for 38 years.
Helen dedicated more than 35 years of her life to Wakefield Hospice, playing a pivotal role in the charity’s growth and development before retiring in March 2025.
Her journey with the hospice began in the late 1980s as a volunteer with the Lupset Fundraising Group. She joined the fundraising team in 1990, shortly before the hospice officially opened its doors following a visit from HM Queen Elizabeth II. Over the following three and a half decades, Helen helped shape the organisation’s fundraising strategy and success, eventually becoming Director of Income Generation and overseeing significant growth in support and income generation across the charity.
On learning of her inclusion in the King’s Birthday Honours List, Helen said:
“For over 35 years Wakefield Hospice was my life. I cannot put into words what this place still means to me today and to have been recognised for my work at this wonderful charity is both humbling and overwhelming.
“Nobody goes into working for a charity to receive commendation for their work; we do it because we truly care about the cause and want to do all we can to ensure it is here to serve the local community in the very best way possible.
“That being said, I accept this honour with immense pride, gratitude and humility.
“I would like to thank all those colleagues, volunteers past and present who worked tirelessly alongside me. The kindness and generosity of the community who were always very supportive and of course my own family who have been with me every step of the way, I share this honour with everyone who has been part of my journey.
“I hope this recognition shines a light on the invaluable work of hospices and inspires others to continue supporting those who need the care.
“Whilst I remain very committed to continuing in my Deputy Lieutenant role in West Yorkshire and being a proud member of Ossett Rotary Club, to have been awarded a BEM is truly the most special way imaginable to wrap up what were some of the most meaningful years of my life.”
Helen Hirst, Chair of Trustees at Wakefield Hospice, said:
“Helen’s contribution to Wakefield Hospice over the last 35 years has been extraordinary. Her passion, dedication and unwavering commitment have helped shape the organisation we are today, ensuring thousands of local people and their families have been able to access specialist hospice care when they needed it most.
“From overseeing the growth and development of our fundraising and retail teams over 35 years to taking on her own incredible fundraising challenges including tackling the New York Marathon, cycling through Death Valley and trekking to Everest Base Camp – this honour is thoroughly deserved and everyone connected with Wakefield Hospice is delighted to see Helen recognised in this way.”
Helen will receive her medal at an official ceremony in the coming months.
Her award recognises decades of dedication to charitable fundraising and the lasting impact of her work. The foundations she helped build continue to support Wakefield Hospice in delivering compassionate care to patients and families across Wakefield and the surrounding area.
The King’s Birthday Honours List is shared publicly from 13th June 2026 through listing in the London Gazette.
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Photo: Helen Mack BEM DL alongside Chris Kamara at Helen’s retirement event in March 2025 (copyright free).
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