A Lewisham carer has earned a British Empire medal for his work supporting other carers and raising awareness of what they do.

Matthew McKenzie, a Carer Ambassador at Cygnet Health Care, was nominated for the prestigious honour by Carers UK.

His award is in recognition of his significant contributions to the community in London.

The medal was presented to him at a special ceremony at the Tower of London by Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE, the Lord Lieutenant.

Matthew, originally from Catford, spoke about his delight in receiving a New Year’s Honour.

He said: "The day was such a special occasion.

"I have done so much raising carer awareness and being a voice for carers.

"It is not enough to be recognised; we also need to be valued by those who hold the same ideals.

"I hope my award sets an example for the importance of community and serving others."

Matthew makes a difference to Cygnet Health Care by ensuring that the voices of other carers are included in their planning and decision-making.

He also oversees several carer forums in London, chairing the National Triangle of Care community group and campaigning for carer rights.

Laura Sheridan, Cygnet Group service improvement manager, said: "It was truly a special day to be there with Matthew as he received this well-deserved honour.

"All of us at Cygnet Group pass on our enormous congratulations to Matthew and are delighted that his dedication, commitment and support to carers have been recognised by Carers UK."

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Outside of his duties, Matthew uses social media to raise awareness about mental health and carers.

He is also an NHS Citizen, has written four books on mental health carers, is involved in several mental health NHS trusts, and campaigns for cancer carers and ethnic minority carers.

Matthew said: "As a carer ambassador I can use my profile to connect with carers who often feel lost within the system.

"Cygnet has done a lot to raise the profile of carers and I am excited to see what will develop from their latest carer initiatives.

"I am sure Cygnet is up to the challenge to identify and support carers."