Former Fighting With Pride leaders receive honorary degree from Northumbria University

In a graduation ceremony at Northumbria University in Newcastle yesterday, Craig Jones MBE and Caroline Paige MBE were awarded Doctor of Science, honoris causa 'in recognition of their extraordinary courage, their transformative leadership, and their enduring commitment to justice, inclusion and the welfare of the LGBTQ+ Armed Forces Community.’

Craig and Caroline, who were central to the work of LGBTQ+ veterans charity Fighting With Pride for years, said: “Fighting With Pride’s partnership with Northumbria University and their northern Hub of Veterans and Military Families Research came at a crucial point in our campaign for justice.

“Their painstaking and groundbreaking research was published in 'Lost and Found: The LGBT+ Veteran Community and the Impacts of the Gay Ban, in June 2023, revealing the full impact of the ban and identifying measures to create, deliver and develop inclusive support. 

“We are very proud indeed to be part of the Northumbria family and to receive this incredible honour.”

Ed Hall, Chairman of Fighting With Pride Trustees, added: "Caroline and Craig both understood the vital need for evidence and data to make things happen. Their work with Nortumbria University created much of the evidence base that has led to the better place we find ourselves in today. I am delighted to see this recognised by these awards.”

Pictured are Craig and Caroline with Dr Gill McGill who led the research at Northumbria University.