Windsor, UK - 19th February 2026
MyPlus Founder and CEO Helen Cooke, and her family, attended Windsor Castle for Helen’s investiture as a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
The royal honour was awarded to Helen by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at an investiture ceremony on the 17th of February 2026 in recognition of services to special education needs and disabilities. Helen was made a CBE in His Majesty The King’s 2026 New Year Honours list.
The decoration acknowledges Helen’s significant contribution, enduring commitment, and transformative impact in working with employers, universities, and students to improve employment outcomes for disabled individuals, particularly young people at the start of their careers.
After receiving her medal, Helen said: “Yesterday was utterly amazing. A day full of excitement, pride, & reflection. I am still amazed to have received this honour however am beyond proud”.
Helen founded MyPlus in 2006 with the vision of ensuring that having a disability or long-term health condition doesn’t prevent anyone from having the career they want to have. She is passionate about developing the confidence of employers and disabled students when it comes to employment.
Helen said ‘When I started MyPlus 20 years ago, I just hoped to make a difference. I never imagined recognition like this; the focus was always impact, not honours. I am passionate about ensuring that disabled people aren’t limited by other people’s expectations not least that I know first-hand how powerful it is when someone sees past your disability and believes in your potential. This honour belongs to everyone who has fought for access, opportunity, and the right to be taken seriously at work and beyond. It reflects all those who have challenged barriers, believed in inclusion before it was fashionable, and pushed for a world where disabled people are recognised for their talent’.
About MyPlus
MyPlus provides industry leading disability employment expertise to enable organisations to become confident, inclusive employers, while empowering disabled students to pursue ambitious careers.
Our mission is to enable disabled individuals to realise their career ambitions and employers to benefit from the unique talents and strengths that disabled individuals can, and do, bring to an organisation.
For more information, contact:
Lise Austen, MyPlus PR Manager
Email: lise@myplusconsulting.com
www.myplusconsulting.com
