Local Jewish civic leader Neil Martin – whose work spans youth development, Holocaust remembrance and interfaith relations across the UK – was invested as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by His Majesty King Charles III at Windsor Castle.
The honour recognises Neil’s sustained national contribution across more than two decades of leadership and comes at a time of heightened concern over antisemitism, safety and social cohesion in Britain. It
As CEO of JLGB.org (the Jewish Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade), Neil has led the transformation of one of Britain’s oldest youth movements into a modern national award-winning organisation – expanding access and enabling thousands of young people from disadvantaged and minority backgrounds to participate, while strengthening identity and belonging.
His work also includes producing Yom HaShoah UK – the Jewish community’s annual Holocaust memorial – and chairing the Interfaith Youth Trust, which supports grassroots interfaith projects across the UK.
The King has a longstanding and warm relationship with the Jewish community, including through Holocaust remembrance, interfaith engagement and as a Patron of Jewish organisations including, fittingly, JLGB.
Speaking following the ceremony, Neil – who was born in Ilford and now lives in South Woodford – said: “This is a deeply humbling moment, not as a personal recognition, but as a reflection of an extraordinary community. It was particularly special to speak to The King about this, and the challenging times we are facing, and to hear of his support.
“I stand on the shoulders of giants. Everything this honour represents has been built by generations of young people, volunteers, partners and families who show up every day with commitment, resilience and belief, determined to be a credit to their community and their country, and to pay it forward to the next generation.”
In a moving Instagram post (above), he thanked his wife Ginny and their children saying: “Last time I stood here, before His Majesty The King, then the Prince of Wales, to receive my OBE, I was a son, standing with my parents. This time, I stood here as a father, with my own children, to receive my CBE.
“The day was made all the more special with Ginny at my side once again. With the many roles I am privileged to hold, I often come home with very little left to give, while Ginny holds our family together behind the scenes.”
The award of the CBE has also prompted praise from senior civic leaders across Government and public life.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “London is proud of leaders like Neil, whose work has brought communities together, supported young people across our city, and ensured that the lessons of history are never forgotten. His CBE is richly deserved, and I congratulate him on this national recognition.”
Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, added: “Neil has spent two decades strengthening the fabric of British society through youth empowerment, Holocaust remembrance and interfaith understanding. His elevation to CBE is a testament to his tireless service and unwavering commitment to building a more cohesive, resilient and compassionate country.”
Ruth Marvel OBE, Chief Executive of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, added: “Neil has played an instrumental role in expanding access to the DofE Award for thousands of young people who might otherwise have faced barriers. His leadership has helped ensure that opportunity is truly inclusive. We at DofE are delighted to see his contribution recognised with a CBE.”
