University student working to support homeless veterans with mailboxes wins prestigious award
A University of Chichester student has won an award for his work supporting homeless veterans and blue light workers to get back on their feet by providing a secure mailbox.
Dean Wormleighton, CEO of Squaddie Box CIC and a BA (Hons) Education, Special Needs & Disabilities student, was named Entrepreneur of the Year at the prestigious 2025 Veterans Awards.
Squaddie Box CIC is a not-for-profit organisation supporting homeless veterans and blue-light workers who are experiencing homelessness or transitioning back into society. It provides secure, permanent postal addresses via locked mailboxes installed in public locations such as GP surgeries, transport hubs and council offices.
“Having a permanent address is often the first step to regaining stability,” Dean explained. “It allows veterans to access healthcare, benefits, employment, and reconnect with family and community. Our first operational box in West Sussex is already supporting several veterans and provides a model we aim to expand nationally.”
The idea was born from a real-life challenge: “I was helping a homeless veteran trying to get PIP (Personal Independence Payment). Without an address, he lost about six months of payments. Squaddie Box is a physical mailbox at a secure location where they can receive government documents, driving licenses, benefits, employment information, social services – everything.
“We’re the missing link, and providing a mailbox is a self-enabler for claiming benefits and accessing employment.”
Dean, who served six years in the Royal Engineers before being discharged with a spinal injury, went on to work in the police for a decade as a technical specialist, followed by roles at BAE Systems and running a security training company. Now, at 53, he’s pursuing a degree alongside his son, who is studying esports at the University of Chichester.
“We’ve started together and we’ll finish together,” he said. “I’ve spent 38 years in work, so studying for a degree still doesn’t feel real yet.”
Part of Dean’s motivation for pursuing the degree in Education, Special Needs & Disabilities, is that Squaddie Box is also developing support for neurodiverse veterans. Dean was also diagnosed with ADHD himself three years ago.
Dean added: “When people leave the forces, they lose the structure and routine they’re used to. That’s where the neurodiverse side comes in.”
With up to 6,000 homeless veterans at any one time, not including blue-light workers, Squaddie Box is addressing a critical gap.
“I’ve heard of fire officers living in campervans out the back of the station,” Dean added. “I wanted to make a difference.”
On winning Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2025 Veterans Awards, Dean said: “This recognition is not only a proud personal moment, but also a huge achievement for the incredible volunteers who make Squaddie Box what it is. This award is a testament to what can be achieved through community spirit, teamwork, and a shared commitment to helping those who have served our country and our communities.
“Thank you to everyone at the University who continues to support my studies and our wider mission – this success truly reflects the values we share.”
To learn more about Squaddie Box, visit: www.squaddiebox.org.uk
