The UK Honours System
The honours system recognises merit and service to the nation. There are several different types of award, each one recognising a different type of contribution.
Honours lists are published twice a year at New Year and in mid-June on the date of The Queen's official birthday. Anyone can receive an award if they reach the required standard of merit or service, and honours lists contain a wide variety of people from different backgrounds.
A Quick Guide to the Awards
Companion of Honour
Awarded for a pre-eminent and sustained contribution in the arts, science, medicine, or government.
Knight/Dame
Awarded for a pre-eminent contribution in any field of activity, through achievement or service to the community, usually, but not exclusively at national level, or in a capacity which will be recognised by peer groups as inspirational and significant nationally, and which demonstrates sustained commitment.
CBE
Awarded for a prominent national role of a lesser degree, or a conspicuous leading role in regional affairs, through achievement or service to the community, or making a highly distinguished, innovative contribution in his or her area of activity.
OBE
Awarded for a distinguished regional or country-wide role in any field, through achievement or service to the community, including notable practitioners known nationally.
MBE
Awarded for achievement or service in and to the community of a responsible kind which is outstanding in its field; or very local 'hands-on' service which stands out as an example to others. In both cases awards illuminate areas of dedicated service which merit public recognition.
BEM
The British Empire Medal (BEM) will be awarded again from this year to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. The medal will be handed out in recognition of the dedication and hard work so many provide to their communities. Those awarded the honour will not receive it from The Queen but from the Lord-Lieutenant. However, those awarded the BEM will be entitled to attend a Buckingham Palace garden party with others whose work has been recognised. About 300 are expected to be awarded each year, although the number is expected to be lower in the first year.
How to nominate - www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/