Honours are given to people for sporting or other major national achievements but many more honours are awarded to those who don’t make the headlines. An honour can recognise the achievements of ordinary people who do extraordinary things but they must still be actively involved in what you’re nominating them for. Anyone can nominate anyone for an honour but, importantly, you must not tell them.
You can find a nomination form here. It’s not difficult to complete but you will need at least two letters of support to back up your nomination and these should be from people who know the nominee personally.
For individuals, honours can be awarded for achievements such as:
– making a difference to their community or field of work
– enhancing Britain’s reputation
– long-term voluntary service
– innovation and entrepreneurship
– changing things, with an emphasis on achievement
– improving life for people less able to help themselves
– displaying moral courage
Honours are given to those involved in:
– community, voluntary and local services
– arts and media
– health
– sport
– education
– science and technology
– business and the economy
– civil or political service
Honours lists are published twice a year – at New Year and on the Queen’s official birthday in mid-June.