Points of Light Award honour for UCL academic

Professor Sutcliffe set up the British Ukrainian Refugee Children’s Clinic, in response to the Russian invasion and provided free online consultations for Ukrainian families who had come to the UK, alongside advice on accessing NHS services.

Professor Sutcliffe created the clinic last year after being moved by the stories of families affected by the war in Ukraine and realising that he could use his expertise to help those in need.

Consequently, he found the resources to set up the clinic, which is run by a team of volunteers, who work with consultants across the UK to provide 30-minute online consultation slots for families affected by the Ukrainian refugee crisis.

Here they can discuss any pre-existing or newly found medical issues and volunteers are able to provide families with advice on healthcare and medical access – enabling the children to get the correct NHS and specialist support.

So far, the clinic has supported an estimated 50 children, and Professor Sutcliffe aims to establish a permanent clinic to help refugees with accessing medical care from local doctors.

Professor Sutcliffe said: “I am delighted on behalf of the British Ukrainian Refugee Children’s Clinic to be given this recognition.

“We have a tradition of making people welcome in the UK. Some of these children are coming over with just the clothes on their back. It has been both interesting and heart-breaking for us who see the families to hear of their needs. However, we are making a difference one family at a time.”

In a personal letter to Professor Sutcliffe, the Prime Minister said: “As we mark one year since Russia’s appalling invasion of Ukraine, I want to thank you for all that you have done to support Ukrainian families with your British Ukrainian Refugee Children’s Clinic.

“You have brought together a volunteer army of doctors from across our country to provide free online consultations and support families newly settling in the UK.

“Your fantastic initiative epitomises the remarkable kindness, empathy and solidarity with which we have opened our hearts and our homes to the Ukrainian people. It shows the very best of our country.

“So I am delighted to recognise your service to others by naming you as the UK’s 1,994th Point of Light.On behalf of the whole country, thank you.”

The Point of Light awards were launched in April 2014 to recognise outstanding individuals making a positive change within their community and inspiring others.

Each day, someone in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements.