Since 1993 everybody has been free to nominate a person of outstanding merit for an honour.

Anyone can be nominated, but only exceptional people are honoured. Achievement comes in many forms but honours committees are looking for someone who has made a difference in their field of work or community.

Honours can be awarded for all sorts of work - paid or unpaid - but your nominee must still be involved in the activity for which they are nominated.

Before you make your nomination, ask yourself the following questions. Has your nominee:

•Made a difference to their community or field of work?
•Brought distinction to British life and enhanced its reputation?
•Exemplified the best sustained and selfless voluntary service?
•Demonstrated innovation and entrepreneurship?
•Carried the respect of their peers?
•Changed things, with an emphasis on achievement?
•Improved the lot of those less able to help themselves?
•Displayed moral courage and vision in making and delivering tough choices?

For copies of the nomination forms and guidance notes, click this link

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