How does the British honours system work?

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The release of the Queen’s Birthday Honours ahead of the Platinum Jubilee provides an opportunity to celebrate individual outstanding achievements and contributions to British society. In recent times, the British honours system recognises people who have “made achievements in public life” and “committed themselves to serving and helping Britain”. It acknowledges long-term volunteers, innovators, entrepreneurs, individuals displaying “moral courage”, those making a difference in their community or field of work or people improving life for others less able to help themselves. – British Empire Medal – Evolved from a medal associated with the creation of the Order of the British Empire, the BEM honours local community service that has made a significant difference.