Royal Humane Society

The Society may also recognise those who have contributed to the saving of a life.

The Society was founded in London in 1774 by two eminent medical men, William Hawes and Thomas Cogan, who were keen to promote techniques of resuscitation.

If you want to make an inquiry about a past award-winner, please use our Research Request form

	George Parsonage wins a Lifetime Achievement Award As lifeboatman and officer of the Glasgow Humane Society, George Parsonage has rescued at least 1500 people from the River Clyde. In May 2005 he was awarded a Royal Humane Society Silver Medal in recognition of his courage and humanity. 'It is hard to imagine a modern life that better embodies the qualities of compassion and respect for human life', wrote the Glasgow Herald.
	Atlantic oarsman defies Hurricane Alex When the 4-man crew of Pink Lady were pitched into the sea only days away from breaking the record for rowing across the Atlantic, Pete Bray saved the life of one of his fellow crew-members ... and then dived down twice through mountainous waves to retrieve the liferaft and emergency kit. The rescued man said: 'It's like being given a second chance. I'm going to hang on that sense of privilege; I'm not going to waste it.'
	Tsunami survivor Helena Benge-Nilsdotter receives award A Christmas holiday turned to tragedy for Helena Benge-Nilsdotter and her party when they were caught by the tsunami off the Maldive Islands. Helena survived the first wave but went back into the sea to rescue a friend in dire trouble. 'I just did something because I had to,' she says. 'I would like to think that everyone would do the same.'
	Canadian truck-driver wins Stanhope Medal 2004 Thomas Bangert's truck was involved in a head-on collision with another lorry carrying fuel. Despite his own state of shock, he managed to pull the other driver clear just seconds before his truck exploded. In January 2005, Bangert was awarded the Stanhope Gold Medal, the Royal Humane Society's most prestigious award.
	Heroine of Iran earthquake honoured London lawyer Ruth Millington had just arrived in Bam, Iran, on Christmas Day 2003, when an earthquake struck. Despite the shock and trauma, Ruth used her bare hands and a shovel to help dig at least 10 people out of the rubble - seven of whom survived. 'When you know there are people underneath the ground who need saving,' she says, ' you just get on with it, you have a job to do.'

Instituted 1774 Registered Charity Number 231469

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