The National Blue Plaques Scheme

You can be a part of bringing history to life across communities in England.

The first Blue Plaque in the new national scheme, run by Historic England on behalf of the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, to Daphne Steele, the first Black Matron in the NHS, with her son, Robert Steele. © Historic England

Do you want to help celebrate inspirational people from all corners of the country? 

For over 150 years, blue plaques have been attached to grand buildings and humble homes. They’ve inspired and intrigued passers-by, and they’ve been a unique record of local history. Now you can help us to extend the original blue plaque scheme outside of London across England. Every community has a unique story to tell and over the next 2 years, we want to commemorate up to 20 individuals who have made significant and positive contributions to human welfare and happiness

Supporting the Scheme

To celebrate more inspiring individuals, we need your help. Please donate to help fund the research, design, production and installation of blue plaques across England.

Historic England Chief Executive Duncan Wilson with Olivia Harrison and Samira Ahmed standing in front of the blue plaque dedicated to George Harrison. © Historic England

Durable and artistic

The bespoke ceramic plaques are made by hand with a striking cobalt hue. Harder than steel, unaffected by solvents and acids, frost-proof, rot-proof, flame-proof, each blue plaque is able to last centuries without maintenance. They create a visually striking and memorable image that captures the public's attention as a popular way of commemorating important contributions to society for many generations to come.

Blue Plaque dedicated to Clarice Cliff.
Blue Plaque dedicated to Clarice Cliff. Blue Plaque dedicated to Clarice Cliff. © Historic England

First National Blue Plaque unveiled  

Daphne Steele made history by becoming the first black matron in the NHS in 1964. It was only right that our first blue plaque was dedicated to her in February 2024. You can read more about Daphne's ground-breaking career and plaque unveiling here

Since the instillation of the inaugural plaque, two more plaques have been unveiled. One to Clarice Cliff, famed ceramicist, and another to George Harrison, for his contribution to music. 

© Historic England

Our National Blue Plaques Programme is supported by Delancey and The Earls Court Development Company.