Abigail Lock wins Charity Chief Executive of the Year at the Third Sector Awards 2026

16 September 2026

Abigail Lock wins Charity Chief Executive of the Year at the Third Sector Awards 2026

Back Up Chief Executive Abigail Lock has been named Charity Chief Executive of the Year at the Third Sector Awards 2026.

The award was presented in London on Friday 11 September and recognises Abigail’s inclusive leadership, strategic vision and the significant growth and transformation Back Up has achieved since she became Chief Executive in January 2020.

Since then, Back Up has grown from supporting 1,658 people each year to 2,789, while continuing to extend its reach across the UK.

This growth has been driven by clear strategic choices, including developing new NHS partnerships that embed lived experience-led support within spinal centres and help Back Up respond to growing demand.

Abigail has also led the rollout of our 2030 strategy, Limitless Ambition, which is grounded in listening and co-production. The strategy sets out our ambition to reach everyone affected by spinal cord injury, strengthen support and break down barriers so more people can pursue their ambitions.

During her time as Chief Executive, Abigail has also overseen a refreshed brand, messaging and digital presence, strengthening how Back Up communicates its impact and reaches new audiences.

The Third Sector Awards judges said:

“Abigail’s inclusive leadership has delivered a remarkable level of growth – strengthening Back Up’s strategic vision – while maintaining a clear focus on the needs of people affected by spinal cord injury. An impressive level of commitment has led to genuine transformation.”

Abigail said:

“I am incredibly proud, and slightly overwhelmed, to receive the Charity Chief Executive of the Year award. To be recognised alongside so many brilliant organisations, leaders and individuals doing extraordinary work across the charity sector is a huge honour.

“I have the privilege of working with an incredible team, trustees and volunteers, alongside our partners, supporters and funders. This award belongs to them too and reflects what we have achieved together.

“The need for our support is growing, but our ambition is growing too. Through our Limitless Ambition strategy, we want to reach everyone affected by spinal cord injury, strengthen the partnerships that make our work possible and continue to be partners in possibility for people across the UK.”

The Charity Chief Executive of the Year award was sponsored by Ansvar Insurance UK.

This recognition comes as Back Up continues to build on 40 years of supporting people with spinal cord injury across the UK, while looking ahead to the next stage of our growth and ambition.