Medal launched to honour Britain’s ‘unsung humanitarian heroes’ in catastrophe zones

A brand new medal has been launched to honour the “unsung heroes” who present support throughout main disasters and emergencies, corresponding to floods and earthquakes.

The Humanitarian Medal, which has been accredited by the King, might be awarded to emergency staff and reduction groups, together with charities, army personnel and medical employees, who reply to crises at dwelling and overseas.

This might vary from pure disasters, corresponding to tsunamis and hurricanes, by to battle zones and epidemics.

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The authorities level to the civilian and army response to Ebola outbreak throughout West Africa in 2015, which the UK marked with a bespoke medal.

Eligibility for the Humanitarian Medal might be for these offering help on behalf of the UK authorities, however won’t be restricted to British nationals.

Deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden mentioned: “Britain has a long and proud tradition of being first in line to help those in need, wherever they may be in the world.

“This new medal is a becoming tribute to our humanitarian heroes who put the wants of others earlier than their very own, typically in essentially the most difficult or harmful environments.”

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International improvement minister Andrew Mitchell mentioned: “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.

“I applaud the efforts of those that present such braveness and function inspiration in a variety of determined conditions.

“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 options a picture of the King on one aspect and the phrases “for humanitarian service” on the opposite.

It is embellished with a multi-coloured ribbon which goals to replicate “the different paths for humanitarian service and the variety of services involved in such responses”, in line with the Cabinet Office.