Call for Nominations
Dear friends,
High Sheriff’s Awards 2025–26 - Nominations for 2026
Do you know someone in your community who quietly goes the extra mile? A neighbour, colleague or volunteer who makes life better for others, often without seeking recognition? The High Sheriff’s Awards are your chance to shine a light on those unsung heroes, celebrating their commitment, kindness and impact by nominating them for one of Oxfordshire’s most prestigious community honours.
The High Sheriff is His Majesty’s representative for law and order in Oxfordshire, supporting the judiciary, the police, emergency services and all who work to keep our communities safe, supported and thriving. Each year, the High Sheriff invites nominations for around 20 Awards, recognising individuals in Oxfordshire who have made outstanding contributions to the communities in which they live and work.
Nominees will usually have had a significant and sustained impact on the lives of others and be recognised by their peers as inspirational role models.
This year, in line with the High Sheriff’s theme, Hearing the Young Unheard, we are especially encouraging nominations for young people and for those who work alongside them.
High Sheriff’s Awards will not normally be made to people whose work has already been recognised by a national honour, or by bodies such as the Police, the Fire and Rescue Service, or Oxfordshire Community and Voluntary Action.
Who can nominate
Nominations can be made by anyone who lives or works in Oxfordshire, or who is representing an organisation in the public, voluntary and charitable, or private sectors.
All nominations will be treated in strict confidence. Please do not inform nominees that they have been put forward, as it can be very disappointing to raise expectations that may not be met.
How to nominate
Nominations should be submitted using the online form at High Sheriff Oxfordshire
You will be asked to provide:
- Contact details for both the nominee and the nominator
- A brief summary (maximum 400 words) explaining why the nominee merits a High Sheriff’s Award
Deadline for nominations: Tuesday 6 January 2026
Notification: Successful nominees will be contacted in early February 2026.
Presentation Ceremony:
High Sheriff’s Awards will be presented at a special ceremony on the evening of Monday 9 March 2026, kindly hosted by Pembroke College, Oxford. Nominators, families and friends will all be invited to attend.
Nominations are welcome for people of all ages who have made outstanding contributions to any aspect of community life.
Please do share this invitation widely with anyone who may wish to nominate someone exceptional, so that together we can recognise and celebrate the very best of Oxfordshire.
With warmest regards,
John May CVO OBE DL
High Sheriff of Oxfordshire