Psychologists recognised in New Year Honours List

Four members of the British Psychological Society have been honoured in the New Year Honours List 2023, which marks the incredible public service of individuals from across the UK.

Professor Robina Shah MBE DL JP, Director, Doubleday Centre for Patient Experience, has been awarded a DBE (Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire) for services to Patient Care.  

Professor Shah, said:

"I'm truly humbled, honoured and delighted to be named in the 2023 New Years Honours list.

"I am overwhelmed with humility and a myriad of emotions. I am thankful to all those people who have enriched my life's journey. I am deeply indebted to my parents, husband Tariq and children, Zainab, Raabiyah and Sulaymaan, and all those patients, carers, families and colleagues who have supported my work. My success is theirs too, and I accept this huge honour for all of us!"

Professor Dominic Abrams FBA, Professor of Social Psychology, University of Kent, has been awarded an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) for services to the Social Sciences.

Commenting on the announcement of his OBE, Professor Abrams said:

"I'm delighted on behalf of the British Psychological Society, Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues, Academy for the Social Sciences and British Academy.

"I have been supported by superb and committed staff and academics working tirelessly to advocate for the social and economic value of the social sciences.

"In my own research work I have been fortunate to work with wonderful students, collaborators and colleagues at the University of Kent and our many partner organisations, working together to combat prejudice and promote a kinder and more inclusive society. This honour reflects the value of their work as much as mine."

Dr Atiya Kamal, Health Psychologist and Senior Lecturer, School of Social Sciences, Birmingham City University, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire), for services to Health Psychology during Covid-19.

Jane Read, Clinical Framework Progression Lead, Directorate of Security, His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service, has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for Public Service.

Recipients in the New Year Honours List have been awarded for their outstanding contributions across all parts of the UK for their work on areas including sustained public service, youth engagement and community work.