Rachael Gilthorpe

Rachael Gilthorpe has transformed Action for Children by introducing innovative digital service delivery and human centred design. She founded the award-winning Family Support service Parent Talk during a three-month accelerator programme and has overseen its growth and development over the last 7 years. Today, over 1.8 million people have been supported by the service and without Rachael, it simply wouldn’t exist.

Rachael is quietly but hugely ambitious and steps up to any challenge that’s put in front of her. She’s not afraid to have difficult conversations or fight for what she believes is right. Whether it’s supporting her small-but-mighty team, securing funding, or advocating for the needs of service users Rachael operates with unwavering empathy, dedication and determination. This has meant that families who could otherwise have gone without essential support, now get the help they need, making positive change in the lives of millions of children.