Soldiering On unveils 2026 finalists plus new award for supporting military community
The Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On have today unveiled their 2026 finalists, celebrating individuals, organisations and initiatives whose commitment and impact continue to strengthen the Armed Forces community across the UK and increase the connections within UK society.
Bringing together stories of resilience, innovation and service, the awards highlight the remarkable contribution of serving personnel, veterans, families and the organisations that support them.
This year's finalists, listed below, have been selected for the difference they make every day, often quietly, but always meaningfully, within their communities.
Spanning twelve categories, including Connecting Society, Business Scale-Up, Defence Inclusivity and Community Impact, the awards champion those who are building stronger connections with wider society, while driving positive change in areas such as employment, wellbeing, education and collaboration.
A highly respected judging panel, led by Co-Chairs Lt Gen (Ret'd) Richard Nugee and Debra Allcock-Tyler, CEO of the Directory of Social Change, reviewed a wide and competitive field of nominations before selecting this year's 36 finalists.
Their decisions reflect both the outstanding calibre of submissions and the breadth of achievement across the sector.
Finalists will be recognised at a reception at the House of Lords on 15 July, hosted by the Awards' Patron, Major General The Rt Hon. the Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton PC.
The winners will be announced later in the year at a flagship black-tie ceremony at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in London on 17 September.
Public involvement remains a key part of the awards, with the Animal Partnership and Inspiration categories once again decided by public vote.
Voting will take place via www.soldieringon.org between 15 July and 2 August.
Major General The Rt Hon. the Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton PC, Patron, said: "Each year, these awards remind us of the extraordinary contribution made by our Armed Forces community, and by those who stand alongside them.
"The finalists represent the very best of that wider community, individuals and organisations whose dedication, compassion and sense of service continue to strengthen the connectivity between military and civilian life.
"It is both humbling and inspiring to see the difference they make, often without recognition, and I am proud to support the celebration of their achievements."
Lt Gen (Ret'd) Richard Nugee, Co-Chair of Judges, said: "This year's finalists represent an extraordinary cross-section of the Armed Forces community.
"What stands out is not only their achievement, but the sustained commitment behind it, often over many years.
"They exemplify the values of service, integrity and teamwork that continue long beyond military life."
Debra Allcock-Tyler, Co-Chair of Judges, said: "The breadth and quality of nominations this year has been exceptional.
"From grassroots initiatives to national organisations, these finalists demonstrate what can be achieved when people come together with purpose and compassion.
"Their impact reaches far beyond the individuals they directly support."
The Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On – Finalists 2026
Animal Partnership Award – in partnership with Pets at Home (Public Vote)
This award honours the unique relationships and companionship provided by animals, and/or the achievements of individuals or organisations engaged with animals that support and empower members of the Armed Forces community.
The winner will be decided by public vote.
- Ali Ramsay and Clyde
- Hounds for Heroes
- Horserenity
Business Scale Up Award – in partnership with LSEG Foundation
Honours an individual or group of individuals linked with the Armed Forces community who have started a successful new business venture more than two years ago (before 1 January 2024) and who still retain a minimum of 50% interest in the venture.
- Cloudhill Productions Ltd
- Forensic Outcomes Ltd
- Glazing Refurbishments Ltd
Business Start-Up Award – in partnership with Barclays
Recognises an individual or group of individuals linked with the Armed Forces community who have started a successful new business venture within the last two years (since 1 January 2024) and who still retain a minimum of 50% interest in the venture.
- Emily Rose Fine Art and Framing
- Mini First Aid
- No Boundaries Disability Consultancy Ltd
Community Impact Award – in partnership with BAE Systems
Recognises a Charity, Social Enterprise, or other Third Sector Organisation that has made a significant positive impact on the lives of specific beneficiary cohorts within the Armed Forces community. This impact should be evidenced within the last three years, since 1 January 2023.
- Female Veterans Alliance
- Fighting With Pride
- Hull 4 Heroes
Defence Inclusivity Award – in partnership with Babcock
Honours the commitment and achievements of an individual, team, or organisation in delivering greater diversity and inclusion within UK Defence and the Armed Forces community.
- Britain's Bravest Manufacturing Company
- Lindsay Skyes
- Sue Liburd, MBE
Education, Training & Development Award – in partnership with Reed in Partnership
Recognises excellence in the provision of vocational education, training or skills development. This may be in the fields of preparatory, ongoing or transitional development for members of the wider Armed Forces community. The provision could be delivered by an individual, team or organisation.
- Fg Off Alex Coombe
- The Open University: Disabled Veterans' Scholarships Fund
- NHS National Armed Forces Training and Education Programme
Employee Champion Award – in partnership with Landmarc Solutions
Recognises an exceptional employee who has made a significant contribution to support members of the Armed Forces community achieve success within civilian roles. Nominees will demonstrate a measurable impact and extraordinary commitment to championing the employability of service leavers, reservists, veterans, spouses, and family members. The nominator must be employed by the same employer as the nominee.
- Amy Walton
- Ian Jacklin
- Laura Blair
Connecting Society Award – in partnership with DXC
New for 2026, this award honours a team, organisation or community group that demonstrates exceptional commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. Rooted in a whole-society approach and built on the values and standards of the Armed Forces, this nomination needs to demonstrate practical, sustained action that brings organisations, communities and family groups together from across our society; strengthening resilience, connection and opportunity for everyone.
- Barratt Redrow
- Catterick Historical Archive
- Veteran Friendly Framework
Healthcare & Rehabilitation Award – in partnership with Redwood Technologies
Recognises a person or team that has demonstrated a major commitment and contribution in support of the physical or mental welfare of serving or former members of the Armed Forces community. This may be through healthcare, therapeutic treatment, or rehabilitation services and support.
- PTSD Resolution CIO
- Veterans In Crisis
- The Warrior Programme
Inspiration Award – in partnership with NatWest (Public Vote)
An award to honour an individual's remarkable achievements in work, community, fundraising, or sports and serve as an inspiration to others within the Armed Forces community. The winner will be decided by public vote.
- Craig Wood
- Nigel Seaman
- Rick Clement
Lifetime Achievement Award – in partnership with Oracle
Honours a person whose lifetime of dedicated service has provided a significant contribution in support of the Armed Forces community.
- David Dent
- Kevin John Walker
- Rosie Thompson
Working Together Award – in partnership with Forces in Mind Trust
Honours a group of people, team, or organisation that has demonstrated an enduring commitment to a collaborative approach, engaging with others to support the sector within the wider Armed Forces community.
- NHS Armed Forces healthcare training and education programme
- Reading Force
- Veterans Regroup CIC
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