Theirworld’s innovative work for children is recognised in Queen’s Birthday Honours List

Director Gil McNeil receives a CBE and trustee David Boutcher an MBE for their services to our charity work and other advocacy.


Theirworld’s innovative work to help children fulfil their potential has been recognised today in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Gil McNeil, Director and Chief Executive of Theirworld, receives a CBE for services to the health and education of vulnerable children and women. 

David Boutcher, Secretary of our Board of Trustees, has been awarded an MBE for his services to children’s charity work and for advocating charitable corporate involvement.

Through research, pilot projects and campaigning, Theirworld is at the forefront of testing and shaping new ideas to help give children in the United Kingdom and around the world the best possible start in life.

Gil Mc Neil With Emma Freud Pic Credit Emma Freud Cbe

Gil McNeil, left, with broadcaster Emma Freud, who is also a CBE

Our causes cover the need for early childhood development, the right of every child to a quality education and the right of every young adult to skills development.

Gil, who is a best-selling author and former Publishing Rights Director, said: “I have always been passionate about fairness and giving every child the best possible start in life, no matter who they are or where they are born.

“The award reflects the life-changing impact of the work done by all the team at Theirworld, an innovative charity which helps children to unlock their potential through research, pilot projects and campaigning for real change.”

The Cabinet Office said the Prime Minister had provided a “strategic steer” to the honours committee that the system should “support children and young people to achieve their potential, enhance life opportunities, remove barriers to success and work to tackle discrimination”.

Gil’s award was said to “reflect these priorities”.

Sarah Brown With David Boutcher

David Boutcher with Theirworld President Sarah Brown

David is a Partner of the global law firm Reed Smith, with a wide experience in all areas of mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance and joint ventures. 

As well as his role with Theirworld, he is a Director of the Global Business Coalition for Education. 

David said: ‘’I am surprised, honoured and humbled by the award. 

“For me there is no better cause than helping and saving the lives of children – and for me this is very much a team effort. 

“I am particularly proud of all those who work at Theirworld and so many of my colleagues at Reed Smith, who support this great work through pro bono advice, fundraising, and various initiatives to raise awareness. 

“And now partnering with corporates to help vulnerable children makes this work even more effective and worthwhile.’’ 


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