Salford professor receives Alumni Award in recognition of charity work
Honorary Professor of Children’s Rights, Law, and Advocacy at the University of Salford, Dr Andrew Rowland, has received a ‘Your Nottingham Alumni Award’ from the University of Nottingham.
The award has been given in recognition of Andrew’s charity work and his work protecting and promoting children’s rights, which has been recognised nationally and internationally.
Andrew graduated from the University of Nottingham in 2000 having studied Medicine and Medical Sciences. He went on to set up the children’s charity SicKids, and works clinically between the UK and Cambodia. His work in medicine and expertise in safeguarding children and protecting children’s rights have been recognised internationally.
He has been awarded a Fellowship and the Pol Roger Prize by The Churchill Fellowship; The Association Medal by the British Medical Association in recognition of his distinguished service to the Association and contribution to medicine; and The Gold Decoration of Honour by the European Union of Medical Specialists to recognise his dedicated work for European Medical Specialists. In 2023, Andrew was appointed as Officer for Child Protection at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.
On accepting his award, Andrew said: “I am delighted to receive this award. My education at the University of Nottingham encouraged me, in my career in medicine, to advocate for those people whose voices are seldom heard and to think of medicine as a global opportunity. Building on that solid foundation I have found it hugely professionally satisfying to do everything possible to recognise my role as a community leader and to recognise the real impact that this leadership can have on creating child safe communities with happy, healthy, and safe children and young people firmly at their hearts.
“It was really lovely to be welcomed back to Nottingham, to hear how the medical school has developed since I graduated, and to see the campus developments. I’m very grateful to the University for giving me this award and think this also reflects well on the brilliant teams with whom I work academically, clinically, and charitably. Thank you very much indeed.”
Each year the University of Nottingham presents ‘Your Nottingham Alumni Awards’ to its alumni in the UK and around the world who have made outstanding contributions to their community, excelled in their field, stimulated new ideas and shown exceptional dedication, creativity and leadership.
Professor Michael Randall, Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education and Student Experience) in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at the University of Nottingham, and the Orator for Andrew’s award, said during the ceremony: “Andrew has contributed his expertise in children's rights law and children's advocacy leading to the development and introduction of child protection standards into emergency departments around the world.
“His research into the adverse effects of physical punishment of children contributed to legislative change in Scotland, removing the defence of reasonable chastisement of children; and his work as Head of the UK Delegation to the European Union of Medical Specialists led to the inclusion of safeguarding competencies into pan-European medical training, furthering the protection of children at a European level.
“This dedication and determination to make a difference to the world around him exemplifies the University’s values perfectly, particularly those of ambition, fairness, inclusivity and respect.”
Professor Margaret Rowe, Dean of the School of Health and Society at the University of Salford, said: “Congratulations to Andrew on this well-deserved award. His commitment and dedication in protecting and promoting children’s rights has quite rightly earned him a hugely positive regional, national, and global reputation. It is an honour to work alongside him as he continues to inspire and encourage our students.”
Dr Rachel D’Souza, Clinical Director, Community Paediatric Service, Manchester Local Care organisation, said: ‘’Congratulations to Andrew on this impressive award. Our service has valued the work and experience that Andrew has brought to the named doctor for safeguarding role and he continues to be a steadfast advocate for vulnerable children.’’
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