The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) is absolutely delighted that Matthew Patey, the Chief Executive Officer of The British Skin Foundation (BSF), has been awarded an OBE – Officer of the Order of the British Empire – in the New Year Honours for services to research into skin cancer and other dermatological conditions.

Since the BSF was first founded in 1996 the BAD has valued greatly the close working relationship with Matthew who has led the BSF from strength-to-strength. Under his leadership for 25 years Matthew has played a pivotal role in making the BSF an internationally recognised and trusted body which is committed to skin health, advocacy, and quality research.

The BSF has raised £17,000,000 for skin disease and skin cancer research under his leadership, funding over 400 dermatological studies. Whilst dedicated to raising money for research, the BSF also aims to raise awareness of skin diseases in the wider community, educating people about the different skin conditions, helping to reduce stigma and promote understanding. Matthew’s long-standing commitment to skin health and research into dermatological conditions has assisted hundreds of scientists turn their ideas into larger, national projects that have had the potential to help people across the country and even globally.

Dr Tanya Bleiker, President of the British Association of Dermatologists commented:

“We are absolutely delighted to hear that Matthew Patey has been recognised for his dedication to dermatology and dermatological research. The British Skin Foundation has been transformed from a small charity, to one of the most prominent charities in the field of dermatology thanks to his unwavering dedication to helping those with skin conditions. We want to extend a huge congratulations to him and we cannot wait to see more from him and the rest of the BSF team in the years to come.”

Prof. Chris Bunker, Honorary Secretary of the BSF commented:

“This recognition is highly deserved. Matthew has worked steadfastly in the interests of dermatology patients for most of his career. In addition to his exceptional work for the BSF, he founded the Skin Health Alliance (SHA) in 2011 and has continued to be its successful Chair and CEO. For a fee, the SHA provides independent dermatological accreditation for skin products to give consumers confidence in their buying choices, with the reassurance that products have been independently verified as skin safe. The SHA contributes its operating profit to the BSF for onward investment in research – approximately £1.3M in total.

All the while he has contended cheerfully with the not insignificant health travails of being a renal transplant recipient. Indeed, he has additionally contributed signally to the workings of the British Kidney Patient Association. A truly lovely man, justly honoured.”