Nominations are now closed for the 2020 Awards.

The Soldiering On Awards recognise the entire armed forces community and are proud to shine a light on all who contribute to making it so special. This week we are focusing on two categories that help ensure we recognise all who play their part.

Remember, this is your chance to nominate someone – and you only have until 30th September to send us your nomination, so don’t delay!

Defence Inclusivity Award – sponsored by Landmarc

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

Who do you know within the military family that exceeds expectations when it comes to making sure everyone can feel included, safe, respected, and supported within the Armed Forces Community?

Scroll down to read more about our 2019 winner and finalists…

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 and/or empower members of the Armed Forces Community.

Who do you know that relies on the support of their animal partner, or works with animals to benefit the wider military community?

Scroll down to read more about previous Animal Partnership winners and finalists…

Defence Inclusivity Award

Here’s a reminder of our previous finalists for the Soldiering On Diversity and Inclusion Award:

• MoD Diversity Networks is collaboration of 25 Defence Diversity Networks, covering race, gender, LGBT, faith/belief, parenting and disability.
• The Armed Forces Diversity Engagement Team creates safe spaces for open conversations around inclusion, challenges stereotypical perceptions and overcomes inclusion barriers.
• Army LGBT+ Forum is a volunteer-run forum that raises awareness about issues of equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Susan Coleman, National Diversity Champion for The Royal British Legion, won the award in 2019. Susan ensures there’s a safe environment for any serving personnel or veterans of any sexuality to feel valued and to be themselves.

The Animal Partnership Award

One community that holds a place in everyone’s hearts is that of the many animal partners that bring companionship, joy and support to so many.

The winner of the Soldiering On Animal Partnership Award is selected by a public vote – meaning that ALL the finalists for this award receive additional publicity.

It also means that the fantastic charities that provide, train, look after and partner these animals receive additional exposure to strengthen their cause.

Who to nominate

You can nominate anyone who benefits from having an animal that helps them with everyday life, or the organisation that trained and provided the animal. Or you may know of an organisation or charity that works with animals to help military personnel in some way and for any reason.

Here’s a reminder of just a few of our previous Animal Partnership superstars:

• Bravehound provides trained dogs to support veterans and their families.
• HorseBack UK is a wonderful organisation that encourages recovery, improved self-esteem and a sense of purpose to wounded and sick ex-military personnel.
• Service Dogs UK provides specially trained assistance dogs for serving or retired members of the armed forces suffering from PTSD.
• June Burgess’ Horses for People, a retirement home for horses that provides horse-assisted workshops for wounded and sick Veterans suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder.

This is a real opportunity for you to help someone you admire to shine! Whether it’s an animal, person, group, organisation or business, you’ll definitely find a category that suits – see them here!