Children’s Advocate Carol Homden Honored as DBE for Service

Carol Homden, the chief executive of the children’s charity Coram, has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) as part of the New Year Honours. This recognition acknowledges her outstanding contributions to children and families throughout the United Kingdom. In a heartfelt statement, Homden expressed her gratitude to her dedicated colleagues and the organizations she collaborates with.

Dr. Homden, who has led Coram since 2007, has been instrumental in advancing the charity’s mission to support vulnerable children and their families. Under her leadership, Coram has launched the Coram Institute for Children, which focuses on promoting evidence-based policies and practices to enhance the welfare of young people.

A Career Dedicated to Children’s Welfare

Throughout her impressive career, Dr. Homden has held several significant roles. She served on the Youth Justice Board for England and Wales and spent seven years on the Adoption Leadership Board. Additionally, she chaired the National Autistic Society for a decade and currently leads Diabetes UK while also acting as a trustee for the Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

At 65 years old, Dr. Homden balances her professional commitments with family life in both Mildenhall and London. She is married to author Steve Caplin, and they have two sons, one of whom experiences autism and learning difficulties. This personal connection informs her work and fuels her passion for improving services for all children.

Dr. Homden previously received a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her contributions to children’s welfare in 2013. Reflecting on her recent honor, she stated, “It is humbling and overwhelming to receive such an honour. It is my privilege to work with dedicated staff, volunteers and supporters… as we strive to support children and families who experience adversity.”

Acknowledgement and Teamwork

Dr. Homden emphasized that the award recognizes the collective efforts of her team rather than her individual accomplishments. She noted, “This award is as much for those I work with as it is for me. It is something very special. My thanks go to everyone I work with.”

She highlighted the importance of acknowledging the daily challenges faced by those working in child welfare. “That work is often hard, and people are often facing complex circumstances,” she remarked.

Professor Ivor Crewe, President and Chair of the Coram Board of Trustees, praised Dr. Homden’s leadership. He remarked, “It is due recognition of her inexhaustible devotion to the welfare of the nation’s children over close to twenty years and her inspired leadership of Coram.” He added that without her energy and dedication, Coram would not have developed into one of Britain’s leading children’s charities.

Dr. Homden’s recognition not only honors her personal journey but also serves as a beacon for the countless individuals devoted to improving the lives of children across the nation. As she continues her vital work, the impact of her leadership will resonate for years to come.