Employer Engagement

Gold standard employers celebrated at 2025 Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Awards

On 23rd October 2025, nineteen organisations from across the wider West Midlands region gathered in Shropshire to receive their Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Awards, acknowledging their outstanding support for the Armed Forces community. The prestigious ceremony took place once again at Lilleshall House and Gardens – home to one of the UK’s National Sports Centres and the Royal British Legion’s Battle…

Celebrating Gold Winners for Outstanding Support to the Armed Forces Community

More than 200 employers from across the UK – spanning FTSE 100 companies, emergency services, local councils and high street names – have been recognised with the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award for their exceptional commitment to the Armed Forces community. The Gold Award is the highest badge of honour for employers who go above and beyond in supporting Defence and…

Thirteen Covenants signed at NMITE event

Thirteen Herefordshire businesses signed the Armed Forces Covenant at NMITE’s sixth annual Military to Business Showcase in the summer. As sponsors of the event it was inspiring to see such a high number of Armed Forces Covenant signings. The event provided a space to connect the military community with potential civilian employers and educational opportunities. Over 250 attendees had the opportunity to visit…

Employers achieve Silver Award recognition for commitment to Defence personnel

Over 100 guests gathered at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to celebrate thirty-six regional employers who have gained a prestigious award presented to them on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. Hosted by the West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (WM RFCA), the forces-friendly employers were presented with their Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for demonstrating exceptional support towards…

Gold winners awarded for outstanding support to the Armed Forces community

* The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme recognises employers who go above and beyond in supporting Defence to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve or have served. * Gold Award is the highest badge of honour for employers who support the Armed Forces Community and uphold the Armed Forces Covenant. * The announcement supports wider Defence transformation under the Strategic Defence Review…

Silver Award announcement for support to Armed Forces

We are very pleased to announce that thirty-six organisations in our region are confirmed as Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award winners for 2025. This brings the total of ERS Silver holders, in our region, to 174. This Ministry of Defence award recognises companies for their support to the Armed Forces community, including Reservists, Veterans, spouses, Cadet Forces Adult Volunteers and Cadets. To…

Fire Service and Cadet Volunteer speak from experience

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) employ a number of Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) and Reservists and are proud to be able to support them, commenting: “Armed Forces personnel make significant personal sacrifices to protect national security and uphold peace. Supporting them is a way to honour their commitment and bravery and reflects our commitment to the community.” HWFRS have…

Going for Gold 2025: Championing Forces-Friendly Employers

This year’s Going for Gold 2025 event invited forces-friendly employers to explore how they can climb the ladder of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). Held at DRP Group’s creative Studio 212 in Hartlebury, the event was a vibrant celebration of collaboration between businesses and the Armed Forces. In partnership with DRP Group, we delivered an action-packed day full of inspiring experiences, hands-on…

Celebrating International Women’s Day

In early March we hosted an inspiring International Women’s Day event at HMS Forward, bringing together local organisations, military personnel and community networks to celebrate the incredible contributions of women in our Armed Forces and business communities. The day focussed on championing the achievements, skills and lived experiences of women, while opening up space for powerful conversations around gender equality and women’s issues….

Inspiring future leaders: Cadets explore career pathways

Cadets from Warwickshire and the West Midlands (South Sector) Army Cadet Force recently took part in a Cadet Careers Fair at Bramcote Cadet Training Centre, designed to open doors to future opportunities. A wide range of forces-friendly employers came together to highlight potential career paths, training options, and offer valuable CV advice. The event allowed the Cadets to engage directly with the employers,…