Building Heroes Accept Esteemed Queen's Award From HRH The Duke of Gloucester

We are proud to announce, that at the end of 2023, we received the official Queen’s Award for Enterprise - Promoting Opportunity. At a Royal reception, HRH, The Duke of Gloucester, presented this prestigious accolade to us during a ceremony held on December 5, 2023, at the County Hall in Chichester.

Upon approval of the Prime Minister, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth provided the royal seal of approval, underscoring our commitment to facilitating the successful transition of individuals from military life to thriving civilian careers.

Following the passing of Her Majesty in September 2022, the award has now been renamed The King’s Award for Enterprise, preserving the legacy of the Queen’s Awards.

Brendan Williams, the Founder of Building Heroes, along with Karen Jefford, former Chief Executive, staff members, graduates, partners, and trustees were invited to attend the Royal reception. HRH, The Duke of Gloucester, representing the King, presented the emblem, Grant of Appointment (an official certificate), and a commemorative crystal trophy.

The Queen’s Award is a prestigious recognition valid for five years, solidifying the charity’s position as one of the most reputable and impactful organisations to work with and support, and affirms their unwavering commitment to fostering social mobility and empowering the armed forces community in their journey toward successful civilian lives.

Brendan Williams said: “From its inception Building Heroes has been about improving the lives of our Armed Forces Service Leavers, Veterans, and their families, it has never been about recognition but to be recognised with this award has been a highlight in our journey alongside the achievements of our learners.”

We reflect on our achievements and our impact across the UK. We have experienced a remarkable trajectory of growth throughout 2023. We take pride in anticipating the upcoming year, 2024, with official acknowledgement from the award, marking the commencement of celebrations for our 10th anniversary.

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Upon this reflection, our partner Davidsons homes said the following: “We offer our congratulations to Building Heroes on winning the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise. It’s a truly well-deserved accolade and a testament to their unwavering dedication to the military community. Davidsons Homes’ partnership with Building Heroes is a huge source of pride not only for me, but for the whole company. Since we launched the programme in 2021, we have seen 130 veterans graduate, with 73 percent of those going on to find employment within the construction industry. To witness the tangible difference Building Heroes is making to the lives of veterans and service leavers is incredibly rewarding and we look forward to many more years working with the foundation.”

We would like to thank HRH, The Duke of Gloucester and everyone involved in hosting and presenting the Queen’s Award.

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