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Cumbria Women of the Year 2026 Winner

Cumbria Woman of the Year 2026 – Leighann McCready
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Leighann has demonstrated extraordinary courage, resilience and determination in turning the tragic loss of her daughter, Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck, into a powerful campaign for change. Through her campaign, Jaysley’s Voice, she has become a tireless advocate for improved safeguarding, accountability and support for Armed Forces personnel who experience harassment and abuse.

By sharing her daughter’s story through national media appearances and engagement with organisations and decision-makers, Leighann has helped shine a spotlight on issues affecting serving and former military personnel. Her campaign has encouraged hundreds of individuals to come forward with their own experiences, driving important conversations around military culture, safeguarding and accountability.

Alongside her campaigning work, Leighann has raised more than £40,000 for the Centre for Military Justice, supporting those affected by sexual violence, harassment, discrimination and abuse within the Armed Forces. Throughout this journey, she has continued her long-standing career as a carer. Her unwavering commitment to protecting others and creating lasting change made her a unanimous choice for this year’s award.

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Charity Of The Year:

Jigsaw, Cumbria’s Children’s Hospice, supports babies, children and young adults living with life‑limiting conditions, offering person-centred care to each child and supports their family, friends and carers. The specialist team provides respite and short breaks in a home-from-home setting, as well as compassionate end‑of‑life care, and ongoing emotional support before and after bereavement. Jigsaw offers opportunities and experiences families may not have had otherwise, and helps children feel cared for, understood and supported throughout their lifetime.

Past charities