We’re delighted that Dr Judith Gould has been appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the New Year Honours List 2026.

Dr Gould is the Lead Associate Consultant at the National Autistic Society's Diagnostic and Assessment Service, retiring as Director of the Centre in 2015. She has dedicated her life to the field of autism. 

Dr Gould’s partnership with the late Dr Lorna Wing OBE in the 1970s led to the creation of the DISCO gold-standard assessment tool, which is now widely used throughout the UK and overseas. Their early research resulted in the concept of the autism ‘spectrum’, a foundation of public understanding which changed the way the world viewed autism.

Dr Gould, alongside Dr Wing, also set up the first service in the UK to provide a complete diagnostic assessment and advice service, which is now known as the National Autistic Society’s Diagnostic and Assessment Service.

The New Year Honours list recognises the achievements and service of people across the UK, from all walks of life.

Dr Judith Gould CBE said: “I’m absolutely thrilled and overwhelmed with this honour, and I would like thank the people who nominated me for this award.”

Caroline Stevens, Chief Executive of the National Autistic Society, said:

“We are exceptionally proud that Dr Gould’s unparalleled contributions to improving the lives of autistic people and their families has been recognised in the New Year Honours List 2026. 

“It is thanks to Dr Gould’s pioneering work that we are able to recognise the unique traits of autistic people and offer tailored support based on their needs. She has devoted her life to autism research in women, championing the fact that autistic women and girls are often misdiagnosed and transforming the lives of millions as a result.

“Autistic people and their families are always at the heart of everything Dr Gould does. Her work redefined our understanding of autism and her global impact cannot be overstated. Her dedication and compassion remains a driving force at the National Autistic Society, where her lifetime achievements continue to inspire the next generation of autism researchers and advocates.” 

Further information

•    Find out more about Dr Judith Gould CBE.
•    Find out more about our Diagnostic and Assessment Service.