Back Up Chief Executive Abigail Lock named third sector awards finalist
15 July 2026
Nomination recognises leadership in shaping Back Up’s ambition to reach everyone affected by spinal cord injury
Abigail Lock, Chief Executive of Back Up, has been named a finalist for Charity Chief Executive of the Year at the Third Sector Awards 2026.
These awards celebrate the achievements of charities, voluntary organisations and the people who work across the not-for-profit sector.
Since becoming Chief Executive in January 2020, Abigail has led Back Up through a period of substantial growth and change, expanding its reach and influence while ensuring that the priorities of people with spinal cord injury remain central to the charity’s work.
Under her leadership, Back Up has grown from a £1.6 million organisation supporting 1,658 people each year to a £3.7 million national charity supporting 2,789 people. In 2025/26, Back Up’s services were accessed 51,418 times.
Abigail has also led the development and launch of Back Up’s 2025–2030 strategy, Limitless Ambition to Transform Lives. It sets out a bold vision to expand Back Up’s reach, enhance its support and break down barriers, so more people across the UK have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.
During her tenure, Back Up has delivered a major brand and messaging refresh, strengthened its systems and infrastructure, and achieved Disability Confident Leader status. The charity has also expanded opportunities for future leaders through its Future Trustee Programme, which supports young people with spinal cord injury and people from under-represented backgrounds to develop skills, gain experience and explore charity trusteeship.
Abigail Lock, Chief Executive of Back Up, says:
“I am incredibly proud to be named a finalist in the Third Sector Awards. While this is a personal nomination, it reflects the hard work, commitment and ambition of the whole Back Up team.
Every two hours, someone in the UK sustains a spinal cord injury, and at least 4,700 people face this life-changing reality each year. Around 105,000 people are living with spinal cord injury across the UK, and the need for the right support is growing.
But our work is not done. Through our 2030 strategy, Limitless Ambition, we want to reach everyone affected by spinal cord injury and continue to be partners in possibility, helping people build confidence, independence and a future shaped by their own ambitions.
I feel very fortunate to lead such a passionate and talented charity. This recognition belongs to our staff, volunteers, trustees, partners and supporters, whose dedication makes our work possible.”
The winners will be announced at the Third Sector Awards ceremony at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Friday 11 September 2026.
