We are so thrilled to announce the Finalists for the 2020 10th Anniversary Soldiering On Awards!

For the past decade, these Awards have recognised some truly inspirational people. They shine a light on the outstanding achievements of current and former service men and women, their families, animal partners and all those who support the Armed Forces Community.

This year in particular, the judges were faced with an overwhelming number of outstanding nominations. With vigour, dedication and a good deal of passionate discussion, they worked tirelessly to select the shortlist.

In a joint statement, Soldiering On Awards Co-chairs Ren Kapur MBE and Tal Lambert MBE, have said:

“The Armed Forces lead the way in demonstrating what it truly means to be a supportive community; both when duty calls and beyond into civilian life. The ethos, values and achievements of each of this year’s Finalists are remarkable and they deserve our hearty congratulations to have reached this position amongst so much worthy competition.”

Over the next few weeks we will be telling you their individual heart-warming and inspirational stories; but for now, we are delighted to name our 2020 Finalists.

  1. Family Values Award – sponsored by The Military Mutual

Honouring a person, family or group whose selfless commitment, dedication and support for others in the Armed Forces Community ensures that they are cared for, supported or helped. This selfless act is therefore a shining example to society and should be recognised.

And the Finalists are:

  • Give Us Time
  • Nikki Scott, founder of Scotty’s Little Soldiers
  • Paula Edwards

Find out more about each finalist here

 

  1. Healthcare & Rehabilitation Award – sponsored by Redwood Technologies Group

Honouring 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.

And the Finalists are:

  • Combat Stress Occupational Therapy Team
  • Martin Diver
  • Sapper Support

Find out more about each finalist here

 

  1. Education, Training and Development Award – sponsored by Capita

Recognising excellence in the provision of vocational education, training or skills in support of preparatory, ongoing or transitional development for members of the wider Armed Forces Community.

And the Finalists are:

  • Army Foundation College, Harrogate
  • LifeWorks
  • Mission Motorsport

Find out more about each finalist here

 

  1. Forces in Mind Trust Working Together Award – sponsored by FiMT

Honouring a person, team or organisation that has demonstrated an enduring commitment and a collaborative approach, engaging with external organisations to support the sector within the wider community.

And the Finalists are:

  • Charnwood, Melton and Rushcliffe Borough Councils Partnership
  • Forces Connect South East
  • Sussex, Kent & Medway Armed Forces Network Team

Find out more about each finalist here

 

  1. Defence Inclusivity Award – sponsored by Landmarc

Recognising the commitment and achievements of individuals and organisations in achieving greater diversity and inclusion throughout the Armed Forces Community.

And the Finalists are:

  • Leona Barr-Jones
  • Defence Diversity Networks
  • Regional Command BAME Engagement Team

Find out more about each finalist here.

  1. Inspiration Award – sponsored by NatWest

Honouring a person or group that has overcome significant challenges, injury or disability, and whose ongoing or past outstanding achievements are an inspiration to others.

And the Finalists are:

  • Lee Spencer
  • Nikki Scott, founder of Scotty’s Little Soldiers
  • Sally Orange

 

  1. People’s Choice Award – sponsored by Oracle

Selected by the Independent Judging Panel from the nominations across all Award categories, to represent the diversity and capture the spirit of the Armed Forces Community’s Soldiering On Awards.  The Winner of this category will be selected by public vote.  This vote will open on February 20th – keep an eye on our social media to make sure you don’t miss it!

And the Finalists are:

  • Lt. Col. Deborah Taylor
  • Hector Duff OBE, MM. Ld’H
  • Matthew Ellmer
  • Richard and Dawn Woodhouse (Holidays for Heroes, Jersey)

 

  1. Animal Partnership Award – sponsored by Pets at Home

Honouring the unique relationships and companionship provided by animals, and/or the achievements of individuals or organisations engaged with animals that support or empower members of the Armed Forces Community. This Award category will be selected by public vote, and voting will open on March 5th. Again, follow us on social media so you’re the first to know!

And the Finalists are:

  • Barry Coase and Bella
  • Battling On Animals and Staff
  • Chris Lewis and Jet
  • Stable Lives

 

  1. Sporting Excellence Award – sponsored by Spectra Group

Honouring a person or team that has overcome challenges, inspired others and demonstrated outstanding achievement in the field of sport.

And the Finalists are:

  • Michael Lewis
  • James Rose
  • Jody Jones

 

  1.  Business of the Year – Start Up Award – sponsored by GKN Aerospace

Honouring a new business that was started by an individual linked with the armed forces who still retains a minimum of 51% interest in the venture, and that has been in business for less than two years (after 1 Oct 2017).

And the Finalists are:

  • Thoughtify
  • Toddle
  • Tribal Tracks Ltd

 

  1. Business of the Year – Scale Up Award – sponsored by the London Stock Exchange Group

Honouring a business that was established over two years ago (before 1 Oct 2017), started by an individual linked with the armed forces who still retains a minimum of 51% interest in the venture.

And the Finalists are:

  • Geollect Ltd
  • IED Training Solutions Ltd
  • ThorpyFx Ltd

 

  1. Business of the Year – Community Impact Award – sponsored by Cisco

Honouring a business that was started up by an individual linked with the armed forces, that has a made a real impact within the Armed Forces Community.

And the Finalists are:

  • Armour to Barber
  • Motivational Preparation College for Training (MPCT)
  • Turn to Starboard

 

  1. Greenwich Hospital Lifetime Achievement Award – sponsored by Greenwich Hospital

Honouring a person or group whose lifetime of dedicated service has provided a significant contribution in support of the Armed Forces Community.

And the Finalists are:

  • Emlyn Phennah
  • Harold Payne
  • The Not Forgotten

 

What’s next?

Please click here for an update on how we’ll be celebrating this year’s winners in light of the restrictions imposed due to Covid-19.

Our thanks once again to all of our dedicated judges!

Awards President, Lord Dannatt said:

“I would like to thank everybody involved with this extremely worthwhile task; the judges who’ve given their valuable time to select the Finalists and those who selflessly nominated others in the first instance. I would also like to thank those who support the Armed Forces community in the widest sense; whether its charities, businesses, individuals or local authorities. These Awards represent the essence of that community and this year’s Finalists are role models for us all.”

And a final word from Awards Patron, the Rt Hon Earl Howe PC:

“It is an honour to be announcing such outstanding Finalists in this, the Soldiering On Awards 10th Anniversary year.  Each group of Finalists stands on the shoulders of remarkable people who have gone before them, and they are now the worthy holders of this special recognition on behalf of the Armed Forces community. We salute you all!”

 

Sharing the good news

As a reminder, you’ll find us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

It will be fantastic if you can share these amazing Finalists’ success! When tweeting or posting on Instagram, please use the following hashtags to help support them:

#SOA2020

#10yearsofSOA

#soldieringonawards

#armedforcescommunity

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