University of Greater Manchester
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14/07/2025
The boss of an HIV charity was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Greater Manchester on the first day of a week of graduation celebrations.
Darren Knight, Chief Executive of the Manchester-based George House Trust, was made a Doctor of the University (DUniv) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to community and charity.
Darren, who lives in Westhoughton, and is the former Chief Executive of Bolton CVS, said he was “bowled over to be offered this amazing accolade”.
Darren received the honour from the University’s Assistant Vice Chancellor (Postgraduate Developments), Professor Mohammed Abdel-Haq, in the Albert Hall inside Bolton’s magnificent Town Hall.
Professor Abdel-Haq said: “In a few minutes’ time you will be able to say that you are the proud recipient of a degree from the University of Greater Manchester!
“This is the first graduation ceremony since we changed our name in December 2024, so it makes today an extra special occasion.”
Students from the University’s School of Engineering and National Centre for Motorsport Engineering (NCME), as well as the School of Education, were also awarded their degrees.
Darren said: “To everybody who is receiving a degree today, well done to you, you are bloody amazing!”
George House Trust is a user-led HIV support charity working with vulnerable and marginalised communities,
It is committed to ensuring that people living with HIV have access to the information and support they need to live healthy and confident lives.
Addressing the graduands and their families, Darren said: “In 2025 there is still the same impact of HIV stigma on people and communities – fear, shame, blame, discrimination, homophobia, racism, sexism, inequity.
“I want you to repeat after me – HIV is completely preventable; HIV is a treatable, manageable, long-term condition; HIV is my responsibility.
“You are now all HIV activists, along with me. Thank you!”
Darren has held a variety of roles in the voluntary and community sector over the last 20 years.
He said: “Volunteering makes such a positive difference, so to everybody embarking on a career for the first time today make sure you give your time to community and if you are already in your career, give more time.”
Before he was CEO of Bolton CVS, Darren was a Development Manager at Shelter.
He is the Chair of Bolton’s Octagon Theatre and has been on the board since 2020.
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