New Year Honours 2026 | The HR, DEI and people leaders recognised this year

While the headlines are understandably focusing on the gongs given to the likes of Idris Elba, Torvill & Dean and Cynthia Erivo, the 2026 New Year Honours list offers a revealing snapshot of the issues shaping the UK’s workforce agenda.

While the honours system spans everything from science and sport to the arts, this year’s list includes a notable number of individuals recognised for their work in education, skills, workforce development, inclusion and organisational leadership.