Nearly 200 organizations have been honored by the UK Government with the prestigious Gold Award for their exceptional support of the Armed Forces community.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award acknowledges the significant role employers play in supporting defense efforts and encouraging others to do the same. This year’s recipients include a diverse range of organizations, from small businesses to global giants, such as Stirling Highland Games, Expedia.com, Google, and B&Q.
In total, 33 sectors are represented among the winners, spanning industries from Healthcare and Education to Recruitment and Food and Beverage. To achieve Gold Award status, an organization must demonstrate an outstanding commitment to supporting the armed forces community.
These winning organizations have been strong advocates for the Armed Forces Covenant, actively engaging with other businesses, encouraging the employment of armed forces personnel, veterans, and their families, and offering sustained support for reservists.
Gold status is also awarded to organizations that implement HR policies accommodating the specific needs of the Armed Forces community while consistently promoting their support within their networks and industry.
This recognition aligns with the government's manifesto pledge to enhance support for armed forces communities, including enshrining the Armed Forces Covenant into law and establishing a new Armed Forces Commissioner to improve service life and provide a strong, independent voice for service personnel and their families.
Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns said:
“Our Armed Forces Community make incredible sacrifices to keep the nation safe, and it is only right that they are welcomed and valued in the workplace. This scheme aligns with this government’s determination to renew the nation’s contract with our Armed Forces.
“I would like to thank the nearly 200 organisations that have been recognised with a gold award this year. Their continued support ensures that our Armed Forces Community are given opportunities needed to flourish.”
B&Q CEO Graham Bell said:
“We are delighted that B&Q has been awarded the Gold in the Employer Recognition Scheme - it is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved, both for our Armed Forces colleague network and colleagues across the business.
“We’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone can feel they belong, and we support all members of the Defence community – from adjusting our policies, to providing extra paid leave for those who serve our country, our by giving our Customer Advisors the automatic right to transfer to another store to be with a spouse or partner serving in the armed forces.”
Managing Director of Manx Radio, Christopher Sully, said:
“We are very proud to have been awarded ERS Gold status and will use that to build closer and stronger relationships between the various organisations and individuals here both serving, veteran and cadets on the Isle of Man. We’ll continue to use our on-air and digital platforms to help raise the voices of the community.
“To win a Gold award from the Ministry of Defence, employers must provide 10 extra paid days leave for reservists, and have supportive HR policies in place for reservists, veterans, Cadet Force adult volunteers and the spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.” Photo: Harland Quarrington/MOD, Wikimedia commons.