The Lincolnshire Branch of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, has been honoured with the Prince Michael of Kent Award for its role as a lead trailblazer in a two-year transformation initiative. Additionally, branch chair Jim Evans received the Sir James Gildea Global Volunteer Award for his exceptional commitment to supporting local servicemen, women, and veterans.
Royal-backed accolades
The awards were presented by two descendants of Sir James Gildea: Edward Gildea, a retired headteacher, and David Santa-Olalla DSO MC, SSAFA London regional chair. This year’s presentations held a special connection to the charity’s history.
Following its entry into the transformation project, the branch embraced new ways of working and developed a strong community engagement strategy, raising SSAFA’s profile across Lincolnshire.
Community impact
The branch has supported other branches, encouraged volunteer engagement, and strengthened links with all SSAFA disciplines throughout the county, including SSAFA’s on-base serving community team, demonstrating a clear “One SSAFA” approach. Led by a small but highly committed executive team, the branch responded exceptionally well to change while delivering high-profile activities such as the Lincolnshire Show, Cleethorpes National Armed Forces Weekend, and a carol concert in Lincoln Cathedral.
The award citation states: “SSAFA Lincolnshire Branch is an exemplary model of volunteer commitment, adaptability, and community impact.”
Jim Evans’ dedication
Jim joined the Royal Air Force in 1979, serving at Leuchars, the Falkland Islands, Germany, Brampton, and Coltishall, including operational deployments over Northern Iraq and the Former Yugoslavia. After leaving the RAF in 1998, he held senior roles in the aerospace and defence sector. He later joined SSAFA Lincolnshire as branch chair and has recently been appointed East Midlands regional chair.
Jim was nominated for his extraordinary impact over the past year. His citation reads: “Through commitment, integrity, compassion, and a deep understanding of both volunteers and beneficiaries, he has delivered a transformation that few could have imagined. His leadership has strengthened not only the Lincolnshire Branch, but also the wider SSAFA community.” It also describes him as “…a shining example of the values we stand for: an inspirational leader who has rebuilt a branch, unified a region, championed volunteer voices, and ensured that beneficiaries receive the very best support.”
Upcoming events and volunteering
SSAFA Lincolnshire's next major event will be a carol service in support of the Armed Forces community at Lincoln Cathedral on the evening of November 30. Ticket details will be announced. The branch is also keen to hear from anyone who would like to volunteer with SSAFA. Search for “SSAFA near me” to learn more.
