A Proud Moment for RBLI at the 2025 Soldiering On Awards
We’re very proud to share that Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) has been honoured with four nominations at the 2025 Soldiering On Awards, a prestigious celebration of the individuals and organisations making a real difference in the Armed Forces community, which we and one of our partners have received recognition for in the four categories below.
We wanted to congratulate all of our nominees for this incredible recognition and to highlight the Animal Partnership Award is a public vote. Please show your support and click the link below and vote for Dexter and Vicky and help us highlight the life-changing impact of their work.
Community
Impact Award
Our nomination for the Community Impact Award recognises the transformative work of Centenary Village – a purpose-built community offering safe, supportive housing and holistic care for veterans of all ages. This nomination is a powerful reflection of our People First approach and our long-standing commitment to those who have served.
Partnerships That Make a Difference
We’re also really pleased to see our corporate partners, Barratt Developments and Redrow, nominated for the Working Together Award. Their decade-long collaboration with RBLI has helped deliver life-changing outcomes for veterans across the UK.
Animal Partnership Award
We’re proud to celebrate Vicky McLennan and her Golden Retriever, Dexter being nominated for this award. After serving as a frontline combat medical technician, Vicky faced PTSD until Dexter became her lifeline. Now a registered therapy dog, Dexter supports veterans, individuals with dementia, and students with anxiety. Together, they regularly visit RBLI’s Centenary Village and other community groups, offering comfort, companionship, and hope. Their story is one of resilience, healing, and service—showcasing the powerful impact of animal partnerships in transforming lives.
Employee Champion Award
Congratulations to Gary Woodford, a Royal Navy veteran and valued member of RBLI’s Lifeworks team for being nominated for this award. Despite personal challenges, Gary remains a quiet force of compassion in the Lifeworks team, continuing to offer dedicated support to unemployed veterans, helping them to rebuild confidence and find purpose through tailored employability support course that Lifeworks offers. Beyond RBLI, Gary has raised over £100,000 for Armed Forces charities and co-organises a major veterans’ event in Wiltshire. His dedication truly embodies the values we hold at Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI).