As someone who had an abusive and challenging childhood, higher education was something I could only dream of as a young person. I was hungry to work and hungry for education but I was dealing with a lot of demons, so it was a dream that remained unfulfilled. However, on Friday 19th July 2024 last week, I was made an Honorary Doctor of Social Science for my outstanding contribution to charitable work from the University of Bolton. Proof that even the dreams you’d given up on, can sometimes come true.

In my acceptance speech, I spoke of my overwhelming pride and honour to receive the accolade. It was important for me to thank those I love, and who have helped me on my journey. I dedicated the doctorate to my late mother who I lost at nine years old, my very good friend Dame Esther Rantzen who has been a mentor to me during my life as a charity worker, and who told my story in the ChildLine charity book, Running Out of Tears. Finally, I (of course!) thanked my amazing husband Lindon Kellet who continually supports me – every day.

I spend 10 hours a day fighting to get support with my charity work, whether it is sick children, deprived children, bullied children, abused children. I am self-motivated and don’t need people to say ‘well done’ to make it worthwhile. However, given my journey this is truly one of the proudest moments of my life and I would like to thank everyone at the university, and Professor HH William Morris for making it possible. I would also like to congratulate all the students who graduated alongside me, and say very well done for the many hours you have spent and years of hard work.

Professor HH William Morris said “Michael is an incredible charity campaigner, successful businessman and mental health awareness advocate, and has dedicated himself to supporting young, underprivileged people. His fundraising efforts provide vital money for various charitable causes and the 2023 Michael Josephson MBE Charity Ball raised more than £1m alone. We wanted to honour him for his charitable work, notable success in business and resilience as a role model and survivor.”

Students from the University’s School of Clinical and Biomedical Science and School of Health and Society were awarded their degrees throughout the day in the Albert Halls in Bolton’s magnificent town hall building. What a wonderful day!