Dr Raja Amjid Riaz, from London, is among 26 exceptional individuals to be honoured with the esteemed British Citizen Award (BCA) at the Palace of Westminster. This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to society.

The Medal Presentation, set for Thursday, January 23, will see Raja receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Service to Healthcare (BCAh). Recipients are entitled to use the post-nominals to commemorate their achievements.

Raja is an NHS Consultant Surgeon, community leader, charity worker and volunteer who has demonstrated exemplary commitment to his local community as well as dedication associated with his charitable, voluntary and humanitarian work. During the Covid 19 pandemic he showed selflessness and commitment – as well as working on the NHS frontline he responded to local needs volunteering with various food and health charity projects and schemes.

During the pandemic, Raja recognised a very low vaccine uptake amongst his community, so he set up a Covid 19 information/advice helpline as well as providing Covid 19 Test and Vaccination centre at the Central Mosque of Brent London. Through this service, they administered more than 13,000 inoculations to the local community.

Raja has also been instrumental in setting up other community health services such as Diabetic and Health Screening Days in association with Brent Health Matters, regular Lung Seminars in association with Asthma and Lung UK, a free community gym, as well as free health related seminars.

More recently, he has inaugurated a stand-alone Health and Medical Facility at the Mosque where various health facilities such as Diabetic Eye Screening and Physiotherapy services are available to a sector of society that might otherwise not be reached.

Stephanie Wood from BCA Partner One Stop commented: "This year's medalists exemplify the incredible support within our communities, especially during challenging times. We're honoured to partner with the BCA and play a part in recognising these exceptional individuals."

The presentation, hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright, will be attended by BCA Patrons Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, and The Rt Hon Lord Dholakia. Following the ceremony, medalists will enjoy an Open Top Lap of Honour tour and a certificate presentation at another distinguished Westminster venue.