National Honours

Honours are given to people from all walks of life and all sections of society who have made a difference to their community. There are several different types of award, each one recognising a different type of contribution.

Although the Lord-Lieutenant may be involved with assessments, all nominations should be made directly to the Head of the Honours and Appointments Secretariat at the Cabinet Office.

Types of honours or awards

Honours are awarded to people who have made a difference to their community – there is a range of awards, each recognises a different type of contribution. For a full list of honours and awards, visit Types of honours and awards on the GOV.UK website.

In honour of The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Birthday Honours in 2012 the British Empire Medal has been reintroduced. This rewards an achievement or contribution of a very ‘hands on’ service to the community. This could take the form of sustained commitment in support of a charity or voluntary activity, or innovative work which has delivered real impact in a short time.

The honours list

The list is announced twice a year, on The King's official birthday (Birthday Honours) and on New Year’s Eve (New Year’s Honours). The presentation of awards usually takes places at an investiture at Buckingham Palace or Windsor Castle.

For further information on how to nominate someone for an award please visit the The honours System Overview on the GOV.UK website