The NHS Armed Forces healthcare training and education programme, delivered by Regional Trainers from the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA), has been named a finalist in the Education, Training and Development category at The Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On 2026.
The award-giving body celebrates outstanding achievement across the UK Armed Forces community, recognising individuals and organisations who make a meaningful difference in supporting the Armed Forces community.
The national programme has been recognised for its commitment to strengthening Armed Forces awareness and improving healthcare delivery across NHS organisations in England. Through structured training and education, VCHA Regional Trainers support NHS staff to better understand and meet the needs of the Armed Forces community.
Delivered across England, the national initiative continues to be a leading example of best practice in Armed Forces aware healthcare, supporting consistency of approach and strengthening collaboration across NHS trusts.
Being named a finalist reflects the dedication of the VCHA Regional Trainers and all those involved in the design, delivery and ongoing development of the programme, as well as the wider commitment across the NHS to supporting the Armed Forces community.
The Armed Forces Community Awards at Soldiering On 2026 will take place on 17 September 2026 at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London.
Kate Davies CBE, Director of Health and Justice, Armed Forces and Sexual Assault Services Commissioning, NHS England, said:
“This recognition is thoroughly deserved and a wonderful reflection of the work that has gone into embedding Armed Forces awareness across the NHS. It’s fantastic to see this important programme recognised in this way, with positive feedback from NHS staff and strong uptake of training across trusts highlighting the difference it is making.”
Professor Tim Briggs CBE, VCHA Chair and National Lead, said:
“This recognition is a testament to the commitment across the NHS to better understand and support the Armed Forces community. The programme continues to make a real difference in improving care and consistency across services.”
Lt Col (Retd) Guy Benson, VCHA National Team Lead, said:
“This is a fantastic achievement for the VCHA Regional Trainers and everyone involved. It reflects the dedication, passion and collaboration that underpins the programme and its impact across the NHS and beyond.”
