How do you become a dame?

to qualify, you need to have done something truly outstanding in your field. all British honours are awarded for exceptional achievement and dames will usually have been given a lower honour first, such as an MBe, oBe or cBe.

the official criteria is to have made “a major contribution in any activity, usually at national level. other people working in the nominee’s area will see their contribution as inspirational and significant, requiring commitment over a long period of time.”

the honours system is run by the cabinet office honours and appointments secretariat, and nominations come from both government departments and members of the public. it’s as simple as filling in a form, but despite the temptation, you can’t nominate yourself.

candidates are divided into subject areas and a government committee produces the list, which is then passed to the Queen via the prime Minister. after hM approves the list, letters are sent out to nominees twice a year, for the Queen’s Birthday honours and New Year’s honours.

once a nominee accepts an honour, the list is formally approved and the recipient later attends the ceremony at Buckingham palace.

For more information visit gov.uk