162 employers from across the UK have been recognised with the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award for their outstanding commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. 10 of those awarded nationally have been from the Greater London area.
- The Gold ERS Award recognises employers demonstrating exceptional and sustained support for the Armed Forces community.
- Organisations from a wide range of sectors are acknowledged for championing Reservists, veterans, military families and the Cadet movement.
- Awards reinforce the vital role employers play in strengthening the UK’s resilience, skills and national security.
Now in its twelfth year, the Gold ERS Award continues to celebrate employers that go beyond their Armed Forces Covenant commitments by embedding forces-friendly policies, advocating for defence and creating inclusive workplaces where veterans, Reservists, military families and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers can thrive.
This year’s recipients represent organisations of every size and from a broad range of industries, including finance, manufacturing, healthcare, education, construction, transport, professional services, retail, emergency services and local government. Together, they demonstrate the growing commitment of UK employers to recognising the skills, experience and values that members of the Armed Forces community bring to the workplace.
This year’s Greater London Gold ERS Awardees are:
- Bromley FC Community Trust
- Central & North West NHS Foundation Trust
- CMS Strategic
- First Response Facilities Management Limited
- Gartner
- London Borough of Bromley
- Rackspace
- Radiocoms Systems Limited
- SATOS Media
- The Not Forgotten
Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey MBE MP said:
“For a veteran starting a new chapter, or a Reservist balancing two demanding roles, having an employer in your corner makes an enormous difference.
“These 162 organisations have gone out of their way to make veterans, Reservists and military families feel genuinely welcome and supported. I’m incredibly proud to recognise them today, and I hope their example inspires many more.”
To achieve Gold Award status, employers must demonstrate that they:
- provide at least 10 days’ additional paid leave for Reservists each year
- have supportive HR policies for reservists, service families, veterans and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers
- actively promote the Armed Forces Covenant and encourage others to support defence
- demonstrate long-term, proactive commitment that exceeds the scheme’s baseline requirements
Gold Award holders play an important role in encouraging other organisations to strengthen their support for the Armed Forces community, helping to build a more inclusive workforce while supporting Defence’s people agenda and strengthening the nation’s resilience.