Professor Angus Watson, Clinical Chair of Surgery at the University of Aberdeen and a consultant surgeon with NHS Highland, has been awarded a UK Humanitarian Medal. The honour recognises his frontline medical work in global conflict zones. Andy Kent, a trauma and orthopaedic surgeon also with NHS Highland, received the same award.
The medals, conferred by His Majesty The King, acknowledge individuals who have made substantial contributions to humanitarian responses on behalf of the United Kingdom, often in highly challenging or dangerous environments. Both Professor Watson and Andy Kent are members of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh’s Faculty of Remote, Rural and Humanitarian Healthcare.
Professor Watson, who also serves as Vice President of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, was deployed with the humanitarian medical NGO, UK-Med, in conflict settings including Ukraine and Gaza. In Ukraine, he was instrumental in establishing a field surgical unit to restore services disrupted by the conflict. He recently volunteered in Gaza as part of a UK-Med surgical team.
“"I’m humbled to receive this honour, but I’m mindful every day of the suffering and dignity I witnessed during my two deployments of Gaza with UK-Med. My thoughts are with the healthcare teams who continue to provide compassionate care in incredibly challenging conditions. Now more than ever, the world needs more humanitarians."
Andy Kent, a trauma and orthopaedic surgeon at Raigmore Hospital, has also worked with UK-Med in conflict zones, including Ukraine and Gaza. In Gaza, he joined a specialised surgical team, advising on complex injuries and supporting patient treatment. In Ukraine, his efforts included supporting surgeons and developing healthcare services amidst the war's impact.
“"I’m truly honoured to receive the Humanitarian Medal. Humanitarian healthcare work is a real team effort, and I’ve been privileged to work alongside some incredible local health professionals in extremely challenging circumstances. I’m grateful to my colleagues in NHS Highland and my family for supporting me to take part in these deployments."
The duo were among 98 UK-Med responders who received medals. David Wightwick, CEO of UK-Med, commented that Angus and Andy’s compassion and expertise were key in helping those affected by conflict, emphasising that humanitarian response is always a team effort.
The UK Humanitarian Medal was established by the UK Government to honour individuals responding to humanitarian emergencies. UK-Med has been active in international health emergencies for over three decades, collaborating with local health professionals to provide care in crisis situations.
