Lieutenancy of South Yorkshire

Background

A Lord-Lieutenant is the British monarch’s spokesperson in each “lieutenancy area” of the United Kingdom. He or she is appointed by the monarch and is in charge of upholding the dignity of the crown. They also try to promote a good spirit of teamwork in the area. They do this by asking others to give to voluntary service. They also take interest in the business, industrial and social life of the area. They focus on the voluntary activity that goes on in it.

The United Kingdom is divided into 98 areas, and each have their own Lord-Lieutenant. There are four areas in Yorkshire – South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire and the East Riding of Yorkshire. They're helped by a Vice Lord-Lieutenant and a number of Deputy Lieutenants. Among their priorities, which are decided on by the Lord-Lieutenant, are:

  • to act as bridge builders and to be a focal point for key parts of the life of the area.
  • to be aware of the good work being done across the area and to seek to make sure this is known. This includes nominating people or groups for honours, awards and other forms of recognition for those worthy.
  • to represent the monarch at events, including presenting certain honours, medals and awards.
  • to arrange visits by members of the royal family and escort royal visitors.

All members are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct for those active in public life. These are:

  • selflessness
  • integrity
  • objectivity
  • accountability
  • openness
  • honesty
  • leadership

Our commitment

We reflect the beliefs and values adopted by the monarch, as head of the whole nation, the Lieutenancy of South Yorkshire. We act as the monarch’s spokesperson in this area (referred to as “the county”). We encourage equality, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of life within the county. Our vision is for the county to be known as an exemplar of equality, diversity and inclusion and respect for all.

In pursuit of those beliefs and values, the Lord-Lieutenant and her deputies connect with people and groups in the county. We reward outstanding service to the community, support voluntary service and good work and promote cohesion and respect.

The lieutenancy wants to make sure people and groups are celebrated and supported for their hard work. It strives to encourage everyone to respect others and to give their best. This is regardless of:

  • age
  • disability
  • gender reassignment
  • marriage and civil partnership
  • pregnancy
  • maternity
  • race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)
  • religion or belief
  • sex and sexual orientation

In order to achieve this the Lord-Lieutenant will:

  • carry out interactions with community leaders and represent the county. They'll seek to recruit Deputy Lieutenants who reflect as far as possible the diversity of the population of South Yorkshire. This includes reflecting skills, experience, as well as location.
  • do regular development with the Lieutenancy (which includes the deputies and support staff). This includes getting the input from other experts. This makes sure that they have the key learning and resources. They'll be able to support the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion in all their activities.
  • make sure the Lieutenancy is able to help all people and groups taking part in activities.
  • encourage approaches from all community groups. This is even more vital for those which have been less visible in the past. This is done through using all media channels and other chances to network. 
  • encourage a spirit of learning and sharing across and between community groups for the benefit of all.
  • seek to promote the national honours system. They'll make sure that nominations for honours, awards and other forms of recognition are inclusive. It needs to reflect the range of good work that takes place across all areas, activities, people and groups.
  • review, evaluate and report on activity to make sure it always improves. This is done by one of the deputies, who will lead a small subgroup on this aspect of our work.

You can read about our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in an easy read format.