The RAF Benevolent Fund celebrated the hard work of its fantastic supporters at its annual awards ceremony last night (Thursday 25 April).
The ceremony, held at the Sheraton Grand in London, was attended by RAF personnel, veterans and supporters of the RAF Benevolent Fund. Hosting the event was actor Alistair Petrie, whose father served in the RAF for 40 years.
Now in its twelfth year, the RAF Benevolent Fund Awards celebrate the outstanding contributions of our fundraisers, volunteers, and partners. Winning Outstanding Support from an Organisation was South Ayrshire Council, and the title of Young Supporters of the Year went to 16-year-old twin sisters Isla and Siobhan Bennett for their volunteering efforts at their Station Ben Club youth programme.
Air Vice-Marshal Chris Elliot, Controller of the RAF Benevolent Fund, said:
“The awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise all of the great work that allows us to continue supporting RAF veterans, serving personnel and their families and making a real improvement to their lives. Many congratulations to all this year’s winners, their inspirational enthusiasm, creativity, and generosity has been wonderful to see. From everyone at the RAF Benevolent Fund – thank you.”
Winning the Special Recognition Award was MBDA Missile Systems for their continuous support to the Fund over the last 15 years. In 2023, they reached a significant milestone in exceeding over half a million pounds in donations for the Fund.
Paula Campbell, Head of Engagement for MBDA, said:
“We weren’t expecting to win this award at all, but we’re thrilled and honoured to be recognised. We’re delighted to be able to support the Fund, we admire all the work the charity does and we’re really excited about the prospect of being a longer term partner with the Fund.”
Below is the full list of winners of this year’s awards, which were supported by category sponsors including Babcock International, Exolum, Lockheed Martin UK, MBDA Missile Systems, Midshires Mobility Services and Proludic.
| Category | Winner |
| Airplay Project of the Year | RAF Wittering |
| Outstanding Support from an Organisation or Group | South Ayrshire Council |
| Outstanding Support from an Individual
|
AS1 Neil Robinson |
| RAF Formation or Squadron of the Year
|
East of Scotland Universities Air Squadron |
| RAF Station of the Year | RAF Waddington |
| Young Supporters of the Year | Isla and Siobhan Bennett |
| Special Recognition | MBDA Missile Systems |
The RAF Benevolent Fund is the RAF’s leading welfare charity, providing practical, financial, and emotional support to RAF personnel, veterans, and their partners and dependants. If you know a member of the RAF Family in need, please go to rafbf.org to find out how the Fund could help.
