Celebrating our 2026 Barbara Wood Citizens Award winners
29th September 2026
The British Polio Fellowship (BPF) has announced the winners of this year’s Barbara Wood Citizens Awards, recognising individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the Fellowship and the wider polio community.
Following the nomination and judging process, the winners in both the polio and non-polio categories were announced at the BPF’s Annual General Meeting on Thursday 17 September.
The awards recognise people who have gone above and beyond in their support of the Fellowship. Each nomination is carefully considered by a judging panel, helping to ensure that the awards reflect the dedication, commitment and impact of those being recognised.
Speaking about the awards, BPF CEO Kripen Dhrona said: “Our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. These awards give us the chance to celebrate the dedication, kindness and commitment they show throughout the year.”
This year’s awards recognise two individuals whose dedication has made a lasting difference to the polio community. George Allan receives the Polio Award category for his years of advocacy, knowledge and support for fellow polio survivors, while Dr Robin Luff is presented with the Non-Polio Award category in recognition of his exceptional clinical care and commitment to those living with the effects of polio.
Polio Award category
George Allan has been a valued member of the BPF Tayside Branch for many years, sharing his extensive knowledge and personal experience of polio to support fellow survivors. His understanding of the condition and its history has been an important resource, both within the branch and across the wider Fellowship.
Through his continued advocacy, encouragement and willingness to share his expertise, George has made a lasting contribution to the polio community. His dedication to helping others and improving awareness of polio makes him a highly deserving recipient of this year’s Polio Award.
Non-polio Award category
Dr Robin Luff receives the 2026 Non-Polio Award in recognition of his many years of dedicated service to polio survivors. As a Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine at the Lane Fox Post-Polio Clinic at St Thomas’ Hospital, London, he provided expert care alongside a compassionate and understanding approach. For many survivors, Dr Luff offered valuable support in managing the late effects of polio and Post-Polio Syndrome, taking time to explain diagnoses, treatment options and available care.
His contribution also extended to the wider work of the British Polio Fellowship. Dr Luff was a member of the Fellowship’s Expert Panel from its beginnings in 2006 and served as Chair between 2012 and 2019, helping develop guidance and resources for both members and healthcare professionals. His continued involvement with the Fellowship, including attending this year’s Health and Wellbeing Conference, reflects his longstanding commitment to improving understanding and support for people affected by polio.
George Allan and Dr Robin Luff have supported the polio community in different but equally meaningful ways, united by a shared commitment to improving the lives of people affected by polio.
We warmly congratulate George and Robin on receiving the 2026 Barbara Wood Citizens Awards, and thank them for their outstanding dedication and contribution to the polio community.