18 June 2025
The former chief executive of the Macular Society, Cathy Yelf, has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the King’s Birthday Honours List 2025 for services to people living with macular disease.
Yelf retired from her position as chief executive in 2024, after nearly a decade in the post, and more than 16 years with the organisation – having joined in 2008 as head of external affairs.
Commenting on the award, Yelf MBE said: “I am very grateful for this huge honour and delighted to be nominated.”
She added: “This recognition is not just for me, but for everyone who has been part of our journey to beat macular disease. So many dedicated individuals have contributed to the progress we’ve made, and I hope this is something we can all celebrate together.”
“There is still much to do to overcome the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, and I know the Macular Society will continue to work tirelessly until that goal is achieved,” she continued.
In addition to her roles at Macular Society, Yelf has also served as a trustee of the Association of Medical Research Charities and has been a member of numerous NHS, NICE and industry committees, working groups and clinical trial steering committees.
Cecilia Bufton, chair of trustees for the Macular Society, congratulated Yelf on behalf of the charity, adding: “This honour celebrates and recognises Cathy’s unwavering dedication and commitment to beating macular disease.”
The organisation noted that, under her leadership, the charity “made such great strides” and is now a leading funder of macular research in the UK.
Bufton emphasised: “We are immensely proud of the lasting difference she has made to the lives of those affected by sight loss.”
Having retired from the Macular Society, Yelf became a board member at the General Optical Council in April 2025 and continues to volunteer as a trustee for Action Against AMD.
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