We are immensely proud of our incredible former Chair, Jan Mather, on being awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2026 for her services to people living with Behçet’s!
Jan’s extraordinary vision has helped to completely transform care for those with Behçet’s across the UK. Today, she continues to work closely alongside us at Behçet’s UK to support our community.
Here is just a glimpse of what Jan has achieved over 20+ years of tireless dedication:
• Co-Created Centres of Excellence: Having Behçet’s herself and receiving exceptional care from her own multi-disciplinary team, she was determined to build a positive, patient-centred experience. Jan spearheaded the proposal to NHS England, establishing the three vital Behçet’s Centres of Excellence in London, Birmingham, and Liverpool so patients can see all their specialists in one place on the same day.
• Behçet’s Patient Centres: To fund holistic Support co-ordinators, she helped set up a separate charitable company – now known as the Behçet’s Patient Centres – and has served as its dedicated Chair since its inception.
• Judith Buckle Award Winner: Her commitment to Behçet’s UK and patient community earned her our Judith Buckle Award back in 2021.
• Unstoppable Fundraiser: Alongside her family, Jan has taken on everything from climbing Ben Nevis, to cycling from London to Paris, to hand-making gorgeous Christmas cards with her mum Mary for us to sell for nearly two decades!
This honour is richly deserved. Thank you to Jan for everything you have done, and continue to do, for Behçet’s patients and their families.