Historically, amid the array of events and awards evenings within the Armed Forces community, there has been a noticeable absence of a dedicated platform exclusively celebrating the cherished support system of military families. The Celebrating Forces Families Awards, organised by members of the MOD Partner Employment Working Group, rectified this in 2022 by dedicating an entire event to honour their unyielding commitment, service, sacrifices, and achievements.
“Events like these are what the “living in our shoes” report terms small acts of kindness and they are important as while they increase resilience and bolster self-sufficiency the most important thing is that they help to celebrate just how important our families are,” said Chief of Defence People, VAdm Phil Hally CB MBE.
This unique awards evening is unapologetically centred around the unsung heroes. At a recent launch event held Barclays’ head office in Canary Wharf, Air Commodore Wendy Rothery announced that the 2024 Nominations gateway is now open. This marks the beginning of the process where individuals and organisations can put forward their nominations for these prestigious awards. This gateway provides an opportunity for everyone to recognise the outstanding efforts and achievements of our Armed Forces families.
Air Commodore Wendy Rothery said: “I am delighted to join the Celebrating Forces Families Team to formally open the nominations for the 2024 Awards. Our families are true unsung heroes who routinely go above and beyond to support the entire Armed Forces Community; they fully deserve the formal recognition that these awards bring. On behalf of Defence, thank you!” Air Commodore Wendy Rothery, Defence People Team
Barclays is proud to announce its role as headline sponsor for the Celebrating Forces Families Awards for the second year running.
The partnership underscores Barclays' commitment to the Armed Forces community and its support for service personnel, veterans and military partners... The 2024 Celebrating Forces Families Awards will unite the military community, showcasing their remarkable stories and contributions.
“Barclays is delighted to continue its support of the Celebrating Forces Families Awards. These awards highlight the amazing achievements of the broader military community, giving this vital support network its own time to shine. These awards put spouses, partners and military children in the spotlight and give them the recognition they deserve. The awards very much align with the importance that the bank puts on supporting our communities” Kevin Gartside, Head of Military & Veterans Outreach at Barclays.
Alongside Barclays, several other companies have joined forces as confirmed sponsors for the 2024 award ceremony to be held on Friday, 26th April. These esteemed sponsors include; Mott MacDonald, Defence Discount Services, Centrica and Forces Employment Charity and our returning media partner BFBS. BFBS provide valuable support in livestreaming the awards night, media support and of course our wonderful host Sian Grzeszczyk.
"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these organisations for their invaluable support. It is through their generosity and commitment that we can make the Celebrating Forces Families Awards a reality," said Sarah Walker from the Celebrating Forces Families organisation committee.
The Celebrating Forces Families Awards can only run this uplifting ceremony with the support of sponsors and partners. A few sponsorship packages remain for organisations who want to become a part of the 2024 event. Interested parties are encouraged to speak to a member of the event team or visit the website for further information.
Join us in honouring these remarkable individuals and families who form the backbone of our Armed Forces Community. Nominations are now officially, please visit the website for further information.
Stay tuned for more information on the upcoming Celebrating Forces Families Awards event!