Four British Red Cross staff and volunteers awarded prestigious King’s Badge of Honour

Four dedicated humanitarian workers have received the British Red Cross’s highest award - the King’s Badge of Honour - at a ceremony at Windsor Castle. 

His Majesty King Charles III, Patron of the British Red Cross, presented the awards to Gill Moffat, Wendy Solesbury MBE, Mairi Allan and Grahame Roberts, recognising their exceptional work supporting people during emergencies and their ongoing commitment to strengthening communities. Together they represent more than 150 years of combined service, supporting young people, influencing policy and delivering frontline support to people in crisis. 

The King’s Badge of Honour is the British Red Cross’s most prestigious award, reserved for service of the highest order to the organisation or the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. It is exceptionally rare, with only 30 people able to hold the award at any one time. 

Béatrice Butsana-Sita, Chief Executive Officer of the British Red Cross, said: 

“On behalf of everyone at the British Red Cross, congratulations to our staff and volunteers who have received the King’s Badge of Honour. Gill, Wendy, Mairi and Grahame exemplify the values of humanity, impartiality and voluntary service. Their dedication has shaped our organisation and strengthened our ability to support people in crisis. We are deeply grateful for their years of service.” 

The British Red Cross has been providing support to those who need it most, no matter who or where they are, for over 150 years. The Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the world’s largest humanitarian network, with thousands of dedicated volunteers and staff supporting people and communities in crisis in over 190 countries, including the United Kingdom. 

King’s Badge of Honour Award recipients 

Gill Moffat, former British Red Cross trustee and psychosocial support volunteer 

Gill has volunteered extensively in services including International Family Tracing, Emergency Response and Psychosocial Support, deploying across the UK and overseas. Her dedication has been recognised through multiple awards, including the Dunant Award and Exceptional Dynamic Values in Action Award. 

Gill also served as a Trustee from 2013 to 2020, making an outstanding contribution to governance and the humanitarian mission. A passionate advocate for volunteers, she consistently brought their voice to the Board and committees, influencing key decisions and ensuring their impact was recognised. As Chair of the Emblem Committee, she championed the Fundamental Principles and the protection of the Red Cross emblem. 

On receiving the honour, Gill said: “It has been a privilege to serve and volunteer for the British Red Cross. I’ve been incredibly lucky to work alongside so many talented and dedicated people. I am deeply honoured to be recognised and proud to have played a part in supporting people in crisis, protecting our Emblem and upholding the fundamental principles that guide our work.” 

 

Wendy Solesbury MBE, British Red Cross Volunteer and youth advocate 

Wendy has devoted 51 years to the British Red Cross, starting as a junior cadet and going on to become a volunteer and staff member. She has championed safeguarding, youth engagement and innovative projects that have transformed lives, including SafeMates, young refugee befriending projects, Surviving to Thriving and Generation Digital. Wendy has mentored and inspired hundreds of young people, created award-winning initiatives, and provided frontline support during major emergencies such as the Grenfell fire. Her dedication, compassion and creativity embody the values and principles of the British Red Cross. 

On receiving the award, Wendy said: “It has been a privilege to dedicate my life to the British Red Cross, ever since my father introduced me to the organisation as a child. I’ve worked alongside many incredible young people and colleagues. I am honoured to be recognised for something that has always been my passion - helping others and creating opportunities for them to thrive.” 

 

Mairi Allan, British Red Cross Youth Engagement Leader 

Mairi has dedicated 31 years to empowering young people through her work at the British Red Cross, creating opportunities for thousands to thrive and have their voices heard. Through her leadership, she has pioneered innovative programmes such as Million Hands with the Scouts, EmpowerHER with UK Youth, and Inspire 22 with #iwill, securing significant funding and forging partnerships that have transformed youth engagement.

Mairi was instrumental in ensuring the British Red Cross achieved the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Volunteering Award in 2022 for its work with young people. 

On receiving the award, Mairi said: “I am really humbled and honoured to receive the King’s Badge of Honour. I believe passionately in the humanitarian power of young people to make a positive difference to our communities. I see their resilience and readiness to help every day. I’m grateful to the many colleagues and young people over the years who have shaped British Red Cross work with young people as truly inclusive, dynamic, courageous, and compassionate.” 

 

Grahame Roberts, British Red Cross Volunteer - 50 years of service 

Grahame began his journey with the British Red Cross in Emergency Response and Event First Aid, supporting major events such as the RHS Tatton Flower Show and Chester Racecourse. When these services closed, he embraced new opportunities, dedicating over four decades to the Mobility Aids Service, where he helped thousands of people maintain independence and dignity during challenging times. In recent years, Grahame has played a vital role as a Volunteer Representative, guiding fellow volunteers through significant organisational changes with compassion and integrity. 

Today, he champions lifesaving education through the Community Education team. In 2024 alone, he delivered 63 Everyday First Aid workshops, reaching more than 1,200 people. His passion for teaching defibrillator use has empowered hundreds to act confidently in emergencies, helping to build stronger, more prepared communities. 

Reflecting on his remarkable service, Grahame said: “I’ve always believed in doing whatever I can to help others. Volunteering with the British Red Cross has been a privilege, and I’m proud to have played a part in building resilience in our communities through our many services supporting people in crisis.” 

ENDS 

Notes to editors 

King’s and Queen’s Badge of Honour 

The King’s Badge of Honour is the highest award bestowed by the British Red Cross, presented by our Patron, His Majesty King Charles III. It recognises outstanding service to the humanitarian values of the British Red Cross and the global Red Cross Red Cresent Movement. Only 30 people can hold the award at any time. 

Two of recipients, Mrs Gill Moffat and Ms Wendy Solesbury, were selected before His Majesty King Charles III became Patron of the British Red Cross. As a result, they will receive the Queen’s Badge of Honour, reflecting our late Patron Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.  

About the British Red Cross

For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk