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 assist throughout main disasters and emergencies, equivalent to floods and earthquakes.

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

This may vary from pure disasters, equivalent to tsunamis and hurricanes, by way of to conflict zones and epidemics.

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

Eligibility for the Humanitarian Medal can be for these offering help on behalf of the UK authorities, however is not going to be restricted to British nationals.

Deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden stated: “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 probably the most difficult or harmful environments.”

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International improvement minister Andrew Mitchell stated: “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 facet and the phrases “for humanitarian service” on the opposite.

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