Honouring Excellence, Service and Contribution Across the UK

The UK New Year Honours List 2026 marks another significant moment of national recognition, celebrating those who have made outstanding contributions across public life, charity, community service and professional excellence. Announced at the turn of the year and approved by King Charles III, the list highlights achievements that have strengthened society and supported people in meaningful ways across the United Kingdom.

This year’s honours continue the long-standing tradition of acknowledging individuals whose work has gone beyond expectation. The honours system recognises achievements in areas such as health, education, science, culture, sport and voluntary service. Each recipient reflects values of dedication, leadership and commitment to helping others, which remain central to the spirit of the honours list.

A wide range of awards feature in the 2026 list, including knighthoods, damehoods, CBEs, OBEs, MBEs and the British Empire Medal. These honours recognise both national impact and deeply rooted community service. Many recipients are people who have worked quietly for years, improving lives, strengthening communities and demonstrating resilience in challenging times.

Public service is once again a major theme, with recognition for those in government, civic roles and public institutions who have shown exceptional leadership. The honours highlight individuals who have driven positive change in areas such as local governance, public safety, social policy and community cohesion. Their efforts underline the importance of steady, responsible leadership for the country.

Healthcare professionals feature prominently, reflecting the continued importance of medical expertise, compassion and service to patients. Doctors, nurses, researchers and support staff are recognised for improving health outcomes, advancing medical understanding and supporting communities through demanding circumstances. Their recognition reinforces the essential role of health services in national wellbeing.

Education and youth development are also strongly represented, with teachers, school leaders and advocates honoured for inspiring young people and expanding opportunities. Their work has strengthened learning environments, supported families and helped shape future generations. These awards celebrate dedication to knowledge, opportunity and long-term social progress.

The honours list also recognises achievements in business, science, innovation and economic development. Entrepreneurs, researchers and industry leaders are acknowledged for driving growth, supporting jobs and contributing to technological and economic advancement. Their efforts help sustain national competitiveness and create pathways for future success across multiple sectors.

Culture, arts and sport remain key areas of recognition, celebrating individuals who have enriched national identity and community spirit. Honourees in these fields have entertained, inspired and united people through creativity and performance. Their achievements reinforce the importance of cultural expression and the powerful role it plays in everyday life across the UK.

Community champions and volunteers form a vital part of the 2026 honours list, highlighting those whose efforts often begin at a local level. From supporting vulnerable residents to leading charitable initiatives, their work embodies kindness, commitment and social responsibility. They represent the heart of British community strength and resilience.

For many recipients, the honour is described as a reflection of teamwork and shared effort. Families, colleagues, volunteers and organisations stand alongside them in pride, recognising that meaningful achievements are rarely achieved alone. The 2026 New Year Honours List stands as a powerful reminder of the talent, dedication and compassion that shape life in the United Kingdom, and it continues to inspire others to serve, lead and contribute positively to society.