The fifth annual Celebrating Forces Families Awards took place on Friday evening at the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms, recognising the extraordinary contribution of Armed Forces families across the UK and overseas. Bringing together families, organisations and advocates from across the military community, the awards shine a light on the resilience, dedication and often unseen impact of those who support Service life every day.
This year’s winners included:
Young People’s Award: Jack and Luke Woodhouse
Social Enterprise Award: NeuroDiverse Community CIC
Business Award: QinetiQ
Small Business Owner Award: Dionne Ross
Family Volunteer Award: Lesley Collier
Social Media Influencer Award: Padwives Unfiltered
Public Service Award: Lisa Brown
Armed Forces Advocate Award: Angela Lewis
Inspirational Adult Family Member: Shelley Ellis
Overcoming Adversity Award: Jo Gordon
Away From Home Award: Katherine Sones
The evening was attended and formally closed by Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, Chief of Defence Staff, who reinforced the critical role families play in Defence.
In his closing address, he said: “The support you provide enables us to be operationally effective. It gives our people the confidence, the stability and the focus they need to serve our country.” His message was clear. Behind every serving member of the Armed Forces is a family whose contribution is fundamental to national security. Sarah Walker, Chair of the Awards, said: “Reaching our fifth year is something we are incredibly proud of. These awards reflect the strength, resilience, and spirit of our Armed Forces families community, and it is a privilege to recognise their contribution.”
The evening was hosted by BFBS presenter Sian Grzeszczyk Melbourne and former soldier and Britain’s Got Talent winner Richard Jones, whose live magic performance brought a moment of shared joy ahead of the awards presentation. Guests were also treated to a live performance from Marham School of Performing Arts, highlighting the creativity and talent within Forces communities, alongside a unique live art experience from contemporary artist Dean Douglas, who created an original piece throughout the evening capturing the atmosphere in real time. Nick Pett, Head of the MOD’s Families Team, said: “Service families provide stability during change, reassurance during deployment, and a sense of home wherever duty takes them. Without their support, Service life would not be possible.”
The awards continue to grow in reach and impact, with the event live streamed globally and supported by a wide network of sponsors and partners committed to championing Armed Forces families. None of this would be possible without that support. Sponsors and partners play a vital role in ensuring these stories are recognised, amplified and celebrated.
Beyond the awards themselves, Celebrating Forces Families continues to share these stories
year-round through its podcast and digital platforms, ensuring the voices of the community
continue to be heard. While the evening recognised individual achievements, its wider message was clear. This is not just an event, but a platform and a growing movement, ensuring Armed Forces families are not only supported, but truly seen.
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