The National Honours Committee (NHC) at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) is responsible for coordinating the process of recommending individuals for national honours. This includes recognising the outstanding contributions made by RCSEd Members, Fellows and individuals who have supported the work and aims of the College, as well as RCSEd staff.
The NHC typically meets twice a year to align with the UK honours submission cycle.
Recommendations can be made from anyone to the Committee for individuals to be considered for College support. This may include the person being put forward by the committee, or the committee writing a letter of support for an existing nomination.
If you believe someone deserves recognition, please write to Moira Britton, Secretary for the RCSEd National Honours Committee (m.britton@rcsed.ac.uk) with details of why you believe the individual deserves recognition and any potential organisations, groups or individuals who would support such a nomination. If the Committee decides to endorse the nomination, relevant letters of support will be obtained by the secretariat.
The honours process is confidential, and the nominee should never know they have been nominated.
Types of National Honours and Awards
The College recognises and supports nominations for national honours, celebrating individuals who have made outstanding contributions to surgery, healthcare and the wider community.
Below are the typical contributions expected at each level of award.
Award Levels and Criteria
Awarded for pre-eminent contributions in any field, demonstrated through:
- Exceptional achievement or service to the community, usually at a national or international level.
- An inspirational and significant impact recognised by peers.
- Sustained commitment to advancing their field.
Recognises individuals with:
- A prominent national role or a leading role in regional affairs.
- Significant achievement or service to the community.
- A highly distinguished and innovative contribution to their field.
Awarded for:
- A distinguished role at a regional or national level.
- Notable achievements or contributions to the community.
- Recognised excellence within a specific profession or field.
Recognises:
- Outstanding service to the community.
- Local ‘hands-on’ contributions that set an example for others.
Nominees are generally expected to be in active practice or recently retired (within six months). Those who have already received a national honour are typically not considered for elevation within five years, except in exceptional circumstances.
Awarded for:
- Hands-on service to the local community.
- Innovative work over a short duration (typically three to four years) that has made a significant impact.