UK launches medal for 'unsung humanitarian heroes who go above and beyond'

Award will go to people tackling humanitarian disasters

The Humanitarian Medal will recognise the work of people who provide support in disasters, such as the earthquake in Afghanistan last year. AP

Britain has unveiled a new medal to honour people who provide aid in major humanitarian crises, such as floods and earthquakes.

The Humanitarian Medal, which has been approved by King Charles III, will be awarded to staff in public service organisations and charities who respond in support of human welfare, either during or in the immediate aftermath of a significant event.

Recipients will be people who have responded to major humanitarian disasters, at home and abroad.

These could encompass natural and conflict-related disasters, significant industrial accidents and biological emergencies, such as an epidemic.

The Cabinet Office has highlighted the civilian and military response to the outbreak of Ebola in West Africa in 2015 as an example of the kind of service the medal will recognise.

“Britain has a long and proud tradition of being first in line to help those in need, wherever they may be in the world," Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said.

“This new medal is a fitting tribute to our humanitarian heroes who put the needs of others before their own, often in the most challenging or dangerous environments.”

The Cabinet Office said the new medal was similar to a military award and will “seek to acknowledge service given in response to a specific event”.

Eligibility for the Humanitarian Medal is not restricted to British citizens and includes civil servants and charity workers, as well as military and emergency services personnel, who are operating on behalf of the UK government.

International Development Minister Andrew Mitchell said the medal would shine a spotlight on “unsung humanitarian heroes”.

“At a time when the world faces increasing crises, this new Humanitarian Medal recognises the unsung humanitarian heroes who go above and beyond to provide aid when disasters hit," he said.

“I applaud the efforts of those who show such courage and serve as inspiration in a range of desperate situations.

“Our work around the world depends on these extraordinary people and this award honours their outstanding contribution in responding to a major crisis.”

The medal’s design features an image of King Charles on one side and the words “for humanitarian service” on the other.

It is decorated with a multicoloured ribbon, which aims to reflect “the different paths for humanitarian service and the variety of services involved in such responses”, the Cabinet Office said.