Stepping Stones NI has warmly welcomed the news that its Chief Officer, Paula Jennings, has been awarded an MBE in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours List 2026, in recognition of her outstanding services to adults with learning difficulties.

Paula’s award forms part of a wider celebration of 55 individuals from Northern Ireland recognised for their exceptional contributions to their communities and to society. Across the UK, 1,157 people have received honours this year, with a strong focus on dedication, compassion and community leadership.

Stepping Stones NI has continued to grow its impact, supporting adults with learning disabilities to build skills, confidence and meaningful employment opportunities. Her commitment to inclusive employment, person-centred support and community development has transformed lives across Northern Ireland and strengthened the organisation’s reach and reputation.

Reacting to the honour, Paula said:

*“I’m absolutely overwhelmed and deeply humbled by this New Year’s honour and by everyone’s lovely messages of congratulations. Thank you.

This MBE doesn’t belong to me alone—it belongs to every single person who makes Stepping Stones NI what it is.

It belongs to the incredible people we support, who are at the heart of everything we do. To our amazing team of staff and volunteers who dedicate themselves every day to seeing everyone’s potential. To our Board members past and present, our partners, families, and community supporters who believe in our mission.

Most of all, it belongs to 27 years of collective, unwavering belief that everyone—regardless of their disability or barriers to learning—deserves dignity, opportunity, and the chance to thrive in our society.

I’m simply fortunate to be the one holding this honour on behalf of all of us. This recognition reflects what we’ve built together at Stepping Stones NI: the lives we’ve changed, and the future we can continue to build for the most vulnerable in our communities. As we enter 2026, it also reminds us why proper investment in this work matters so deeply—so we can continue making this difference for years to come.”

— Paula Jennings MBE, Chief Officer, Stepping Stones NI

Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Hilary Benn praised recipients for their “extraordinary dedication, resilience and positive impact.”

We are beyond proud of Paula and this incredible, well-deserved recognition. Congratulations, Paula, on this remarkable achievement.