On 30 April 2026, Dhruv Patel CBE made his declaration as High Sheriff of Greater London at the Royal Courts of Justice before the Lady Chief Justice, bringing a modern, community-focused agenda to one of the country’s oldest civic offices, with a particular emphasis on youth violence prevention. Among those in attendance were former Prime Minister Baroness Theresa May and former Lord Mayor of London Sir Nicholas Lyons, reflecting the significance of the occasion across public life and London.
Dhruv Patel grew up above his father’s shop in Hackney in the 1980s, an experience that shaped his understanding of community life, policing and opportunity in London. He now brings that lived perspective to the role of High Sheriff, with a focus on strengthening links between communities and the justice system.
A businessman with interests across real estate, insurance and retail pharmacy, Patel has also held a number of leading roles in public and community life. He was appointed CBE in the 2026 New Year Honours for services to civic leadership and charity, having previously received an OBE in 2018 for voluntary service to the British Hindu community and to social cohesion.
Patel was the Chairman of the City Bridge Trust, London’s largest independent charitable grant-maker, from 2019-2021 where he oversaw the distribution of more than £55 million and supported the creation of the London Community Response Fund during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The office of High Sheriff, which dates back more than 1,000 years, exists today to support the judiciary and promote the effective functioning of the police, courts and wider criminal justice system. It is an independent and unpaid role, with each office holder funding their own year in office.
Focus for the Year
During his year in office, Patel will focus on youth violence prevention and early intervention, with particular attention to communities in East London and the role that faith groups can play in supporting young people and strengthening social cohesion.
Drawing on his own upbringing in Hackney, he will engage with organisations across the East End and wider London, including police cadets, schools and community groups, as well as faith-based initiatives that play a vital role in mentoring, support and prevention.
Quote
“I grew up above my father’s shop in Hackney in the 1980s, and saw first-hand the realities of community life in London. Those experiences have stayed with me and shape how I see both the challenges and the opportunities in our city.
“This is a Crown appointment, and I approach it with a deep sense of duty — to serve our justice system, to support our communities, and to play my part in upholding the values that bind us together.
“During my year, I hope to support the outstanding work already being done across London, particularly in preventing youth violence and strengthening the connections between communities, faith groups, policing and the courts.”
During his year in office, Patel will undertake visits across Greater London, including to courts, prisons, emergency services and community organisations, supporting initiatives that promote safer communities and improved outcomes for young people.
Readers like you, make ESHADOOT work possible. We need your support to deliver quality and positive news about India and Indian diaspora - and to keep it open for everyone. Your support is essential to continue our efforts. Every contribution, however big or small, is so valuable for our future.
