Liverpudlian included in UK Charity Hall of Fame

Natalie Reeves Billing, best known for her work as an author and co-founder of The Animates has been included in The Charity Hall of Fame 2026.

Celebrating community changemakers, twelve individuals including Natalie Reeves Billing have been hailed for their work that has transformed communities across the UK and beyond through social action, public service and reform.

Natalie speaking about her inclusion said:

“This year’s Class includes Lady Phyll, founder of UK Black Pride and a leading voice for intersectional equality; Elham Fardad, founder of Migrant Leaders, supporting young people from migrant backgrounds to access careers and opportunity and Jennie Williams, founder of Enhance the UK, whose work challenges stigma and expands inclusion for disabled people.

“They are joined by Garreth Wood MBE, for co-founding Kids Operating Room, expanding access to life-saving surgery for children worldwide. Together their work spans equality, health, education and community development.

“I was genuinely shocked to hear the news especially given the illustrious nature of the inductees in the twelve people chosen.”

Natalie’s inclusion was based on her innate ability at storytelling and creativity to support children’s literacy and wellbeing.

The Class of 2026 also honours a number of posthumous inductees whose legacy continues to shape society today on issues such as housing justice, public health, consumer rights and community action.

They are Rev Bruce Kenrick, founder of Notting Hill Housing Trust and co-founder of Shelter; Martyn Butler OBE, co-founder of the Terrence Higgins Trust; Mark Ashton, founder of Lesbians and Gays Support the Miners; Dame Sheila McKechnie DBE, a pioneering campaigner for housing and consumer rights and Pearl Alcock, a Brixton community figure who created one of Britain’s earliest safe spaces for the London Black LGBTQ+ community.

The Class includes two ‘Legends of Change’, recognised for their enduring historical impact, Mary Wollstonecraft, a founding voice for women’s equality, and Benjamin Lay, an early abolitionist who challenged slavery long before it was widely opposed.

Malcolm John, Chair of the Charity Hall of Fame Induction Panel said:

“The Class reflects both the diversity and breadth of community action and social reform, often founded on lived experience and highlights the considerable impact of inspirational community leaders on social change.”

Natalie added:

“Thank you to Malcom along with Jamie Ward-Smith, founder of Charity Hall of Fame, whose creation has always been about celebrating people who have made a difference to the lives of others and to preserve their legacy to inspire future generations. I’m feeling so proud.”