We are incredibly proud to announce that the Soldiering On Academy will deliver its very first in-person programme for Wounded, Injured, and Sick (WIS), economically inactive, and underemployed veterans and spouses this May in Truro, Cornwall.
This programme marks a significant milestone – not only in our journey but in the journeys of those we serve. And it’s all thanks to the overwhelming support from those who bid on and donated Soldiering On Awards auction prizes in recent months. Your generosity has turned aspiration into action. On behalf of all of us at X-Forces Enterprise (XFE) and Active Plus, thank you.
Real Support, Where It’s Needed Most
Delivered in partnership with the outstanding team at Active Plus CIC, this initiative brings together the best of both worlds: hands-on, in-person training that meets veterans and spouses where they are, combined with follow-up coaching and mentoring delivered in person and online. It’s designed to help participants regain confidence, build new skills, and take tangible steps toward sustainable employment, self-employment, or skills development.
Why This Matters – Now More Than Ever
In the UK today, many WIS veterans and military spouses remain underrepresented in the workforce – not due to lack of will, but due to barriers like long-term health conditions, caring responsibilities, rural isolation, or gaps in confidence and skills. Programmes like the Soldiering On Academy create tailored, trusted environments for those who have given so much to society and now need society to give a little back.
Dougie Thomson – Head of Training & Events at XFE – said: “They deserve nothing less than the best support available – and that’s what we aim to provide, every step of the way.”
A Full Circle Moment
Ren Kapur MBE, CEO of XFE and the SOA, will personally be in Truro with her team to help deliver this pilot programme. For Ren, this is more than just another training – it changes lives and we have seen the positive impact of this programme over the years.
Ren said:
“It is a privilege to be supporting this cohort of veterans – and the families who stand beside them – they have dedicated themselves to defending our country and our way of life. When we launched the first programme like this back in 2015, we knew the need was there. A decade later, that need hasn’t gone away – but what we have built is a stronger, more united ecosystem of support.
“This first Academy programme in Cornwall represents everything we stand for: collaboration, compassion, and practical solutions. It’s a proud moment for me and my team, and I can’t wait to get stuck in alongside our brilliant delivery partners at Active Plus.”
Laura Truckle, Managing Director of Active Plus CIC, commented:
“We’re incredibly proud to be hosting this programme in Truro. It’s a fantastic opportunity to support veterans and spouses in building confidence and new skills – right at the heart of our community.”
Standing Beside Those Who Served
This is more than a programme. It’s a powerful, positive turning point—an opportunity for veterans and spouses to see a new future and take that first bold step toward it.
Thank you again to everyone who made this possible. There is no one more deserving, and we are honoured to stand beside them on this journey.
