Military charities invited to nominate outstanding organisations strengthening the Armed Forces community
The Armed Forces Community Awards Soldiering On has announced the launch of a powerful new national honour for 2026: the Connecting Society Award. This new award is inviting nominations for organisations, teams or community groups that are building meaningful, lasting connections around the Armed Forces community.
Rooted in the belief that strength is created through connection, the Connecting Society Award recognises those who work beyond silos to bring together families, employers, educators, health providers, volunteers, veterans and civilians in ways that genuinely improve lives.
What the Connecting Society Award recognises
The Connecting Society Award honours sustained, values-led action, not one-off initiatives. Judges will look for nominees who:
- Create meaningful, practical connections across organisations, communities. And society as a whole
- Strengthen resilience, opportunity and belonging for the wider Armed Forces community
- Demonstrate a long-term commitment to partnership, learning and collaboration
This is an award for those playing the long game, organisations that consistently show up, stay engaged and quietly build bridges that last.
Who would you nominate?
Military charities are uniquely placed to see where real impact is being made. You may work alongside:
- A local organisation that continually adapts to meet the needs of service families
- Partner or complimentary charities supporting our community in society
- A community group bringing civilians and veterans together with dignity and respect
- A cross-sector partnership that has grown stronger over time through trust and shared purpose
Often, the most transformative work goes unnoticed. Nominating an organisation for the Connecting Society Award is a way to say: we see you.
Why this matters now
Connection, collaboration and shared responsibility are essential. The Connecting Society Award reflects this reality and celebrates those who are already leading by example, strengthening not only the Armed Forces community, but of society itself.
Take action
Now is the time:
- Think about who you would nominate
- Start the conversation and let others know why their work matters
- Consider partnership with organisations that share these values
- Be part of a movement that recognises connection as a strength
Nominations for the Armed Forces Community Awards are open now, who will you nominate for the first Connecting Society Award?
