More than 110 Scots have been named in His Majesty The King’s Birthday Honours List 2025, recognised for their remarkable efforts in public service, community work, and dedication to others. With a total of 1,215 awards issued across the UK, Scotland’s recipients make up nearly 9% of this year’s list.
The honours, announced on Friday, spotlight individuals from a broad range of sectors—healthcare, education, youth work, humanitarian aid, and the arts—each contributing in their own way to the fabric of Scottish life.
Community Work, Tragedy, and Resilience
At the heart of this year’s list is the story of John and Lorna Norgrove, who were awarded OBEs for their work in Afghanistan. Their efforts through the Linda Norgrove Foundation, named after their late daughter, have provided life-changing support for Afghan women and girls.
What began from personal loss has grown into a beacon of sustained humanitarianism. The Norgroves’ honours were described as “well-deserved” by Scotland Secretary Ian Murray, who praised their compassion and resolve.
And they’re not alone.
From Dumfries to Dundee, recipients include grassroots organisers and quiet changemakers—often unsung but deeply respected in their communities.
A Spotlight on Faith, Inclusion, and Diversity
This year’s list is notable not just for who’s honoured, but also for what they stand for.
Among them:
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Dr Richa Sinha, Chair of the Scottish Hindu Society, has been recognised for her ongoing work to combat Hinduphobia and promote religious understanding.
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Zahrah Mahmood, better known as the “Hijabi Hiker,” has made outdoor spaces more inclusive through her leadership in the Rambling Society.
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Heather Hall, founder of The Usual Place in Dumfries, was also honoured for building an inclusive café and training hub that supports young people with additional needs.
These are not just titles. These are lived commitments.
Long Service, Quiet Dedication
One of the quieter, deeply moving recognitions goes to Moira Vance, who received an MBE for her service to the Scotland Office.
For 44 years, Moira has been a steady presence in government—working behind the scenes, far from the spotlight. Her colleagues describe her as “instrumental,” and her award is seen as a fitting tribute to decades of public service.
This year’s honours, more than most, seem to lean into people like Moira—those whose contributions aren’t flashy but form the backbone of their departments, towns, and networks.
The Numbers, At A Glance
Here’s a quick breakdown of the 2025 Birthday Honours:
| Category | Total Honoured (UK) | From Scotland | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Honourees | 1,215 | 110+ | 9% |
| Public & Voluntary Service | Majority share | — | — |
| Humanitarian / International | 40+ | Several | — |
| Youth, Inclusion, and Culture | 150+ | Dozens | — |
Note: Full Scottish breakdown not publicly released yet.
National Leaders Respond
Prime Minister Keir Starmer used the moment to underscore a theme of unity through service, saying:
“This year’s Birthday Honours List is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and service that exists in every corner of our country.”
Meanwhile, Scottish Secretary Ian Murray made special mention of the Scottish awardees, calling their contributions “the very best of Scottish compassion.”
And while honours lists can sometimes feel distant or ceremonial, this year’s list is unusually personal—heavy on locals, charity organisers, and frontline contributors.
Beyond the Headlines: The Impact Back Home
Behind every medal or letter from the palace is a ripple effect.
In Dumfries, The Usual Place continues to provide job training and dignity for disabled youth. In Glasgow, Dr Sinha’s work is slowly reshaping community dialogues around religious tolerance. In Inverness, the Norgrove Foundation still quietly supports scholarships for girls in Afghanistan, long after international headlines moved on.
And for many, it’s not just the honour itself—but what it represents. Acknowledgment. Visibility. That their work mattered to more than just the people who saw it day to day.
