Centenary Village Wins National Recognition at Soldiering On Awards
Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) is proud to share that its Centenary Village was named winner of the Community Impact Award at the Soldiering On Awards 2025, held in London on Wednesday 22 October. The prestigious awards celebrate outstanding contributions to the Armed Forces community and brought together more than 1,000 guests from across the UK to recognise individuals and organisations making a real difference.
RBLI was shortlisted in four categories and came away with one of the evening’s most significant accolades, alongside three further finalist recognitions. This is a powerful reflection of the charity’s wide-reaching impact and the strength of its people and partnerships.
Centenary Village: A National Model for Inclusive Veteran Housing
The Community Impact Award was won by RBLI’s £28 million Centenary Village development, a transformative project that will provide 100 new homes for 100 veterans and their families by 2027. But its impact goes far beyond shelter. Designed around the real needs of those who’ve served, Centenary Village offers intergenerational living, a community café and gym, an IT learning hub, and tailored wraparound support.
The award affirms Centenary Village’s as a national exemplar of inclusive housing and a model for replication across the UK. It reflects the collective effort of RBLI staff, supporters, and partners who helped bring this ambitious vision to life, and the veterans who now call it home.
Celebrating Our Finalists: People and Partnerships at the Heart of RBLI
RBLI was also proud to be named a finalist in three additional categories:
Working Together Award – RBLI’s long-standing partnership with Barratt Redrow was recognised for its decade-long commitment to social impact. From building homes to supporting inclusive employment through Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company, this collaboration exemplifies the power of purpose-led partnership in driving national change.
Employee Champion Award – Gary Woodford, Royal Navy veteran and member of RBLI’s Lifeworks team, was recognised for his unwavering dedication to helping veterans rebuild confidence and purpose through tailored employability support. Gary’s impact extends far beyond his day job: he has raised over £100,000 for Armed Forces charities and co-organises one of the UK’s largest veterans’ events in Wiltshire. His nomination is a testament to the respect he commands across the Royal Navy community and the wider sector.
Animal Partnership Award – Centenary Village residents Vicky McLennan and her therapy dog Dexter were honoured for their remarkable bond and community service. 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. From their home in the village, Vicky and Dexter continue to offer comfort, companionship, and hope to others.
A Testament to RBLI’s Mission
These awards reflect the scale and heart of RBLI’s mission: building communities, creating opportunities, and standing alongside those who’ve served. Whether as winners or finalists, each nomination is a tribute to the people, partnerships, and values that drive our work forward.
We are deeply grateful to the Soldiering On Awards for this recognition, and to every supporter who makes our mission possible.