The honours system used to be too posh but I'm proof change is happening
Summary
The British honours system has changed to include more people from working-class backgrounds and different parts of the UK. New data shows a much higher percentage of awards going to everyday people doing important work, not just to rich or famous individuals.Key Facts
- Clive Lawrence, who grew up in a working-class area, received an OBE for his education work.
- In 2026, 31% of higher honours recipients came from working-class backgrounds, up from 4% in 2025.
- Overall, 38% of all honours went to people from working-class backgrounds, matching the UK population percentage.
- The Honours Diversity and Outreach Committee was created to make the awards more fair and representative.
- The system now recognizes people helping their communities, like those running food banks or charity projects.
- Examples of awardees include Michael Akers, who founded a charity for children with disabilities, and Ally Outten, who lends prom dresses to families in need.
- The gap in honours between London and other parts of the UK has also narrowed.
- The goal is to honour "everyday people doing extraordinary things" while keeping high standards for the awards.
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