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2025 Honours List Highlights Remarkable Contributions to Mental Health Awareness and Care

Royal Honors Celebrate Key Figures Advancing Mental Health Awareness and Justice

The Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) is the UK's professional body for psychiatrists, dedicated to improving the lives of people with mental illness through education, training, research, and advocacy for better mental health policy. It offers resources, support, and training for professionals and provides public information on mental health issues. In recognition of outstanding contributions to mental health and other causes, His Majesty The King has announced the 2025 New Year Honours list. Among the honorees is Stephen Fry, Honorary Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, who has been appointed a Knight Bachelor for his work in mental health awareness, environmental advocacy, and charity. Known for his tireless efforts to reduce stigma around mental health, particularly bipolar disorder, Sir Stephen also serves as President of Mind and Vice-President of Fauna & Flora International.

Dr Joan Rutherford, Fellow of the Royal College of Psychiatrists and honorary consultant at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to the administration of justice. Dr. Rutherford also serves as Chief Medical Member of the Health Education and Social Care Chamber (Mental Health) at the First Tier Tribunal. Dr. Lade Smith CBE, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, expressed pride in the recognition of Sir Stephen and Dr. Rutherford, highlighting their dedication to advancing mental health understanding and improving outcomes for marginalized individuals.

The College congratulates several partners recognized in this year’s New Year Honours, including Marie Sylvia Gabriel CBE, Chair of the NHS Race and Health Observatory, who received a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to health and equality. Professor Stephanie Anne Amiel, Emeritus Professor of Diabetes Research at King’s College London, also received a DBE for her services to people living with diabetes. These honours reflect the ongoing commitment to improving mental health and advancing public health. Nicole Alison Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, received a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to domestic abuse victims. Dr Tracey Anne Cooper, Chief Executive of Public Health Wales NHS Trust, was awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her contributions to healthcare and public health.

Dr Rowena Christmas, Chair of RCGP Wales and GP Principal at RCGP Wales and Wye Valley Practice was honoured with a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her work in general practice. Professor Ketevan Tchanturia, Professor of Psychology in Eating Disorders at King’s College London and Consultant Psychologist at South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, received an MBE for her services to people with eating disorders and autism. Other notable recipients for their contributions to mental health include Professor Julia Clare Buckingham CBE, former Vice-Chancellor of Brunel University London, who received a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to higher education. Stephen Timothy Mallen, founder of the Zero Suicide Alliance, was awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his work in mental health and suicide prevention.

Recipients of the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) include Professor Margaret Anne Defeater for her services to education, Jasmine Dotiwala for her work in broadcasting, music, and equality, Ann Geraldine Gow for her contributions to nursing in Scotland, David Oldfield for his services to workplace mental health and disability, Gian Singh Power for his work in mental health, and Ubaid-ul Rehman for his services to equality in the LGBTQ+ community. The 2025 New Year Honours list recognizes individuals for outstanding contributions to mental health, public health, and social justice. The Royal College of Psychiatrists congratulates all recipients for their impactful work, which continues to improve lives and advance societal well-being.

 

Editor's Note:

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 970 million people worldwide are affected by mental health issues. The individuals recognized in the 2025 New Year Honours list have made significant contributions to mental health, playing a crucial role in reducing stigma, raising awareness, and improving the lives of those affected by mental health conditions. Stephen Fry’s advocacy for mental health, particularly his openness about living with bipolar disorder, has helped to spark vital conversations and encourage many to seek help. Dr. Joan Rutherford’s work in mental health law has improved access to justice for individuals facing mental health challenges. The tireless efforts of these honorees highlight the importance of mental health as a fundamental component of overall well-being.

Skoobuzz congratulates all the honorees for their selfless contributions and reminds us of the need to build a society that prioritizes mental health, ensuring that everyone has access to the care and support they deserve.