One of those professionals is Lauren Robinson, whose career progression at West Midland RFCA demonstrates the opportunities available for those looking to develop their skills and take on new challenges.

Starting a Career with West Midland RFCA

Lauren joined West Midland RFCA in June 2023 as a Placement Surveyor while completing her Building Surveying degree at the University of Wolverhampton, where she graduated with First Class Honours. At the time, she was also working part-time as a Technical Resourcer for a recruitment agency.

She was looking for an opportunity to gain practical experience that complemented her studies and saw the placement as the perfect way to work alongside experienced professionals, apply the knowledge she had gained at university, and develop her skills in a real working environment.

“During my placement I was able to gain hands-on experience across a wide range of surveying and estate management activities. As my confidence and experience grew, I was entrusted with managing smaller refurbishment projects, allowing me to take ownership of projects from inception through to completion.”

Rapid Career Progression

Lauren’s placement quickly became a permanent position after just three months. In June 2024, she was promoted to Estates Officer, taking on greater responsibility across the estate. Following her continued development and success, she was promoted to Estates Manager just two years later.

Her rapid progression reflects both her commitment and the opportunities available within West Midland RFCA.

Estate Management

As Estates Manager, Lauren is responsible for overseeing the successful delivery of the new Future Defence Infrastructure Services (FDIS) contract across the South region and RAF Air Cadets estate. A key part of her role is ensuring the estate remains safe, compliant, and operating effectively.

“As with any new contract, there have been challenges during the transition. A key part of my role is to monitor performance, raise concerns where standards have not been met, and work closely with VIVO to ensure these issues are resolved promptly.”

For Lauren, applying for the Estates Manager role was a natural next step in her career. She wanted a position where she could have a greater influence on how the estate is managed and contribute to strategic decision-making.

Today, she leads on contract assurance, supports compliance across the estate, and helps ensure facilities remain fit for purpose for Reserve and Cadet users.

“No two days are the same, and I enjoy the balance between being out on site, engaging with stakeholders, and working in the office to resolve issues. Whether it’s delivering refurbishment works, resolving compliance issues, or helping reopen a building for its users, it’s rewarding to see the positive impact the work has on the estate.”

Lauren has contributed to a wide range of projects during her time at West Midland RFCA. Some of her favourite projects include:

• Refurbishment of the Caretaker’s Flat.
• Refurbishment of the Council Building.
• The development of a new DCCT range at Canley Army Reserve Centre, a project she particularly enjoys because it has introduced her to something completely new.

Continuing Professional Development

In just three years, Lauren has achieved an impressive amount. She completed her Building Surveying degree while working as a placement student, secured a permanent role, progressed to Estates Officer, and now serves as Estates Manager.

“That progression reflects the trust that has been placed in me and the experience I’ve gained over a relatively short period.”

“Alongside formal learning, I believe a lot of development comes from experience. I actively seek opportunities to take on new challenges, manage increasingly complex projects, and learn from colleagues with different areas of expertise.”

Why Choose a Career with West Midland RFCA?

Looking back on her journey, Lauren believes West Midland RFCA offers an excellent environment for professional growth, with opportunities to develop a wide range of skills while making a tangible difference.

“I would definitely recommend a career with the RFCA, particularly to someone who enjoys variety and wants to make a real difference. It’s a great place to develop professionally because there are plenty of opportunities to take on new challenges and build your skills. You are exposed to a broad range of work.”

If you would like to learn more about our Estate or explore current career opportunities with West Midland RFCA, please visit our website.

The post From Placement Surveyor to Estates Manager: Lauren Robinson appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

This month, we spoke to West Midlands Police (WMP), the second largest police force in England and Wales by population served. The force protects more than 2.9 million people across the seven local authority areas of Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell, Dudley and Solihull.

WMP Employer Recognition Scheme Journey

West Midlands Police first signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2012, and their recent Silver Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award reinforces their longstanding commitment to supporting colleagues who are veterans, Reservists and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers. Impressively, the force currently employs 63 active Reservists.

Achieving the Silver ERS Award recognises the steps WMP have taken to create an inclusive workplace for the Armed Forces community. Their recruitment practices and workplace policies help make the transition from military service into policing as smooth as possible, enabling former service personnel to bring valuable leadership, professionalism and specialist skills that benefit both the organisation and the communities it serves.

The force has also strengthened its support for Reservists by ensuring its special leave policy enables them to meet their annual training commitments. Reservists are entitled to up to ten additional days of paid leave each training year, helping them balance their policing career with their military responsibilities while contributing to the resilience of the UK’s Armed Forces.

Matt, Response Officer and Military Liaison Officer

These policies have enabled many colleagues to successfully combine their civilian careers with Reserve service, including Matt, a Response Officer and Military Liaison Officer.

Matt joined the Army Reserve at the age of 19 and has now served for 16 years. He joined West Midlands Police in November 2023 and currently works as a Response Officer.

“I’m fully aware of how cliché it sounds, but being a Reservist really does give you the best of both worlds. It allows you to maintain your civilian career while receiving military training and deploying on operations. The Reserves will allow you to do as much as you can commit to.”

Reflecting on his personal journey, Matt said:

“From a personal perspective, you just never know where the Reserves might lead you. I met my wife through the Army Reserve, and ten years later we’re married with a 15-month-old daughter. It’s not something I could ever have predicted when I first walked through the doors of a Reserve centre sixteen years ago.”

Matt explained that he initially considered joining the Regular Army but was encouraged to explore the Reserve Forces first.

“I was in two minds about joining the Regular Army, and somebody I knew who was serving in the Reserves suggested I join them instead. It gave me a great insight into military life and helped me decide whether it was the right path for me.”

Alongside his policing role, Matt serves as a Military Liaison Officer, supporting Military Aid to the Civil Authorities (MACA) operations. This includes coordinating military support for major events and emergencies, such as the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. Depending on the operation, he may deploy on the ground as the liaison between military and civilian agencies or provide support from a military or civilian operations room.

“I really enjoyed the balance of having my civilian career while being able to do the Reserve bit in my spare time, so I carried on. Sixteen years later, despite several civilian career changes, the Reserves have remained a constant throughout.”

The Reserve Forces make up around one-sixth of the British Army’s trained strength and play a vital role in protecting the nation’s security at home and overseas. Reservists dedicate their spare time to serving their country, making employer support essential.

West Midlands Police are a fantastic example of an organisation that recognises the value Reservists bring to the workplace. By supporting them through flexible policies and a positive workplace culture, they also demonstrate their wider commitment to members of the Armed Forces community.

Matt also wants to encourage others to consider joining the Reserve Forces.

“People often think you need specialist skills to join, but that’s absolutely not the case. You’ll receive all the role-specific training you need. All that’s required is enthusiasm, commitment and the ability to work as part of a team, and there will be a role for you in the Reserves.”

Congratulations to West Midlands Police on achieving their Silver Employer Recognition Scheme Award, and thank you for your continued commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.

If you’re thinking about signing the Armed Forces Covenant, or you’re ready to take the next step towards achieving a Silver or Gold Employer Recognition Scheme Award, we’d love to help. Click here to find out more.

The post West Midlands Police: Building a Forces Friendly Future appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

Following the long journey, the Squadron’s first stop was the Hooge Crater Museum, located on the site of one of the 13 mines detonated beneath German lines in July 1915. The visit provided a fascinating introduction to the history of the Ypres Salient and the battles that shaped it.

On Monday, the cadets visited Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world. With almost 12,000 graves and the names of more than 35,000 missing soldiers commemorated on the memorial walls, the scale of the site left a lasting impression. Many of the headstones bear no name, carrying only the poignant inscription, “Known unto God.” The sheer number of graves was overwhelming.

Tuesday began at Essex Farm CWGC Cemetery, where the preserved Regimental Aid Post is dug into the former railway embankment. It was here that Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae served as a medical officer and wrote the now-famous poem In Flanders Fields. The cemetery also contains the grave of Victoria Cross recipient Private Leonard Barratt of the South Staffordshire Regiment, as well as that of Private Valentine Joe Strudwick of the 8th Rifle Brigade, who was just 15 years old when he was killed. One cadet commented,

“Private Strudwick was the same age as me, and younger than some of us,”

The Squadron then visited Talbot House (Toc H) in Poperinge, affectionately known as “Every Man’s Club”. Founded by Reverend Philip “Tubby” Clayton, it offered soldiers a place of rest and refuge away from the front line. The attic, converted into a small chapel, remains largely unchanged. Climbing the narrow wooden staircase to the peaceful sanctuary provided a powerful contrast between the horrors experienced by those who sought comfort there over a century ago and the tranquillity visitors experience today.

The tour concluded with the honour of taking part in the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate. Situated on the eastern edge of Ypres, the Menin Gate marks the route taken by thousands of British and Commonwealth soldiers as they marched to the front. Today it bears the names of more than 54,000 soldiers who have no known grave, while a further 35,000 are commemorated at Tyne Cot. Together, these memorials stand as a powerful reminder of the immense human cost of the fighting around Ypres.

124 (Hereford) Squadron was privileged to play an active role in the ceremony. Flying Officer Andy Taylor delivered the Exhortation, while wreaths were laid on behalf of both the Squadron and the Herefordshire Regimental Museum, with whom many of the Cadets have been working as part of a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award project.

Although the itinerary was busy, there was still time to experience a little Belgian culture and, of course, enjoy an ice cream, or two!

During the long journey home, conversations on the coach reflected the impact of the tour. Between the inevitable naps, Cadets discussed the sites they had visited, the sacrifices they had learned about, and the realities of war. There were also plenty of lighter moments to remember, including one at the Menin Gate when a ceremony steward unexpectedly took the Squadron mascot, Harold the Hereford Bull, along with his keeper’s phone. For a brief moment, everyone feared Harold had been confiscated, only for the steward to march proudly into the centre of the ceremony, in front of around 500 people, and take a commemorative photograph of Harold with the Menin Gate in the background. 

It was an unforgettable tour that created memories the Cadets will carry with them for many years to come.

The post 124 (Hereford) Squadron RAFAC Visit First World War Battlefields appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

Operating from three strategically positioned depots across Central England, Traffix provides traffic management for complex infrastructure schemes, construction projects, highway maintenance, utilities, and high-profile events such as Birmingham Pride.

“We have a wide variety of work. A big part of what we do is traffic management for events. We work on several football clubs, festivals and events, so there’s a real variety in the work we do. The football clubs we work with, as well as our directors and wider workforce, are all made up of people from mixed backgrounds.”

Traffix was founded in 2006 with a mission to do things differently. The Traffix way is the family way.

“We’re completely unique and different, not just in the work that we do, but in the values we bring to our staff. We have a one-to-one, open-door policy, and we really care about our people and their families.

“We offer a support network not just for our staff, but for their wider families as well, and that’s where I think we’re different. We’re not just employers who expect people to clock in and clock out. Anyone can approach any of our directors, and we’re always here to listen and offer support.”

Traffix and the Armed Forces Covenant

Director of Operations Vinnie comes from a military background, as do his brother and the company’s Health and Safety Executive. Around ten years ago, the business found itself asking the same question: how can we better support veterans and Reservists?

“We did some research and contacted a Major, who was fantastic in guiding, helping and supporting us through joining the Armed Forces Covenant. Without that support, we’d have been lost. Speaking to soldiers and sitting down with their families is one thing, but getting on that first step of the ladder is another. The support Sam Brittle has given us, right up to today, has been invaluable throughout the whole process.”

Being ex-forces themselves means Vinnie and others within the organisation understand the broad range of skills Reservists and veterans bring to the workplace.

“Reservists are fantastic. They bring punctuality, professionalism, attention to detail, communication skills and the ability to liaise with clients. We’ve had people like Prince William turn up at Aston Villa, as everyone knows he’s a big fan, and the first people these VIP guests see are our Traffix team. So appearance and attention to detail are really important. Whether they’re speaking to VIPs or members of the public, they know how to deal with the situation straight away and provide support and advice.”

Traffix’s Journey to Gold

It took Traffix seven years to achieve Gold in the Employer Recognition Scheme. Vinnie believes that’s a positive thing because organisations shouldn’t see it as just another award to display on their website.

“It’s important that the process isn’t a quick fix. You have to demonstrate what you do and put a lot of work and effort into it. For me, it’s more than worth it.”

Traffix hasn’t just achieved Gold; they’ve also encouraged other businesses to sign the Armed Forces Covenant.

“Our advice is that getting to where you want to be takes hard work and commitment. You’ll need continued support throughout the process. It takes time, but it’s incredibly rewarding.”

Supporting Forces and Families

The Employer Recognition Scheme doesn’t end once an organisation achieves Gold. Employers must continue supporting Reservists, veterans, volunteers and military families. Traffix understands that commitment and ensures its people are well looked after.

“Some people who joined us from other companies had to take annual leave or weren’t paid when attending Reservist duties. We don’t do that. They keep their annual leave, and we pay them when they need time off for Reservist training and activities.”

Thank you to Traffix for going the extra mile to support veterans, Reservists and other members of the Armed Forces community. Gold Award holders proactively advocate for and support Defence, demonstrating their commitment through established policies and by championing the Armed Forces community both within their organisation and across the wider community.

Are you thinking about signing the Armed Forces Covenant? Or are you looking to take the next step towards Silver or Gold in the Employer Recognition Scheme? If you’d like to find out more, please click here.

The post Traffix: Building a Forces-Friendly Future appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

Guests were able to enjoy delicious canapés and fizz, wonderful performances from the Shropshire Brass Ensemble, the stirring sounds of the Shropshire Army Cadet Force Bugles, and the chance to explore an impressive display of vintage military vehicles.

A huge thank you to MC, Samantha Brettell DL, who kept the evening flowing, and to the inspiring speakers:

– Oliver Benbow, General Manager of Hatfields
– Colonel Marius Coulon, is the Honorary Secretary to the Shropshire ACF Trust
– Charlie Hall, former Cadet with Shropshire ACF and now a second year operations apprentice with Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL).
– Francis Acton, Chair of West Midland RFCA and Army Reserve Officer.
– Melvyn Downes, former 22 SAS Sergeant-Major and Author of Unbreakable, and also a member of the Directing Staff on SAS:Who Dares Wins.
– Ted Shirley, former infantry soldier with 1 Royal Welsh, served two tours of Afghanistan as a sniper and Author of Afghanistan Sniper: Trauma on the Front Line and Beyond.
Dr Graham Wynn OBE, Head of Wynn Foundation.
Sean McCarthy, Health and Wellbeing Directorate and Sport & Physical Activity Co-ordinator – Shropshire Council.

Having spent a decade navigating severe Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and moral injury, Ted has dedicated his civilian life to breaking the silence surrounding military mental health. Melvyn shared how resilience, hard work, timekeeping, and a good sense of humour are just a few skills that members of the Armed Forces community bring to workplaces.

It was an honour to be joined by the Shropshire Lord Lieutenant, adding to what was a truly memorable occasion. Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening such a success.

The post Shropshire Armed Forces Drinks Reception and Engagement Event appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

At JLR, this commitment is brought to life through the experiences of its reservist employees. The stories of Sean Thompson and Simon Deakin highlight how the organisation enables individuals to successfully balance demanding military responsibilities with thriving civilian careers.

Sean Thompson: Production Leader and Army Reservist

For Sean Thompson, a Production Leader at JLR and a Private in the 4th Battalion Parachute Regiment, joining the Army Reserve was about fulfilling a long-held ambition. While a full-time military career wasn’t viable, the Reserves provided a route to pursue his goal.

Since joining in 2023, Sean has achieved one of the most demanding milestones in military training. Passing P Company is widely regarded as one of the toughest courses in the British Army. This accomplishment stands as a testament to his determination and resilience. 

“I had always wanted to join the Army as Infantry, but I couldn’t leave my civilian job. Joining the Reserves gave me the opportunity to finally chase that ambition and the challenge of passing P Company was a major driving force for me.”

At the same time, Sean’s civilian career has continued to progress. Starting on the production track, he worked his way through roles including Product Coach and Group Leader, before securing a permanent Production Leader position. Most recently, he successfully achieved promotion to Senior Production Leader at the Battery Assembly Centre.

“I enjoy problem‑solving and getting to the root cause of issues so we can eliminate them permanently. That approach helps protect the customer and supports the quality standards we need for next‑generation products.”

Simon Deakin, Facilities and Development Engineer and RAF Reservist

Joining the RAF Reserves was both a personal and professional commitment for Simon Deakin, Facilities and Development Engineer and Corporal in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force. With a family history of military service spanning more than 130 years, his reservist experience directly enhances his engineering role. 

“My family has a long history of military service. Joining the RAF Reserves allowed me to carry on that legacy and contribute my own skills to the British Forces.”

Over the course of his service, Simon has contributed to a range of high-profile operations, including a NATO mobilisation to Estonia, Covid support efforts, and work alongside the Red Arrows. These experiences have strengthened both his technical expertise and his ability to operate in high-pressure environments.

“At JLR, I’m currently working on the Electrical Modular Architecture project at Halewood, helping to prepare the site for the next generation of electrified vehicles. My engineering role is heavily influenced by the discipline and technical precision I bring from the RAF Reserves.”

Simon notes that flexibility has been key to sustaining both careers. Despite the demands of his role, he has consistently met, and often exceeded, the 27 days of annual reservist service required. 

“Balancing my work at Halewood with my reservist commitments can be challenging, but JLR has always supported me. I’ve consistently been able to meet, and often exceed, my required 27 days of annual service, thanks to the flexibility and understanding of my management team. It’s a testament to JLR that I’ve been able to develop both my military career and my civilian role with their full backing.”

A Culture of Flexibility and Support

Balancing reservist duties with a full-time role isn’t easy, but both Sean and Simon emphasise the importance of JLR’s supportive culture.

The experiences of Sean and Simon demonstrate how JLR’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant goes beyond policy; it is embedded in the organisation’s culture. By providing flexibility, encouragement, and recognition, JLR enables reservists to excel in both their military and civilian roles.

For employees, this means the opportunity to pursue personal ambitions, develop new skills, and contribute to national defence, without compromising career progression. For JLR, it brings a workforce enriched with resilience, leadership, and technical expertise.

As Sean reflects, joining the Reserves can “open doors you never expected.” At Jaguar Land Rover, those doors remain firmly open.

The post Reserves Day: Sean Thompson and Simon Deakin appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

“One of the first steps in establishing that relationship is through the Armed Forces Covenant, which is one of the main areas I work on. Another key part of my role is supporting employers who employ members of the Armed Forces community.”

For Darren, Armed Forces Day is all about celebration. We all learn from an early age that Remembrance is about honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defending our country and the values we stand for. Armed Forces Day, however, is more about celebration – raising awareness, showing appreciation, and recognising those who are currently serving, particularly those on active duty.

20 Years In The Army

Before his civilian career, Darren served in the Army for more than 20 years.

“It’s been both an honour and a source of pride. I started as a Cadet and joined the Army at the age of 16 through the Junior Entry scheme. I completed just under 24 years of full-time service, and when you include my 17 years as a Reservist, the entire journey has been one of honour and pride. For me, it has been an absolute privilege. My service has made me the person I am today – loyal, hardworking, dedicated and, perhaps most importantly, humble.”

There are many different types of Reservists. Some are former Regular personnel with reserve recall liability, but what we celebrate during Armed Forces Day and Armed Forces Week are those who are actively serving. Reservists play a full part in that.

The UK Armed Forces maintain a relatively small Regular force, so active Reservists are essential in supporting their Regular counterparts. Although they serve part-time, they undertake the same training and can be mobilised to perform the same roles, participate in the same exercises, and deploy on the same operations as Regular personnel.

“Because Reservists serve part-time, they also need full-time employment. When we talk about employers, we’re talking about organisations that employ Reservists, but also service leavers, veterans, military families, strategic Reservists, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, all of whom play a vital role within the wider Armed Forces community.”

“That’s why supportive employers are so important. Good support starts with having policies in place that recognise and assist these individuals. At the most basic level, when an organisation signs the Armed Forces Covenant, it pledges to support the Armed Forces community. This could include offering additional leave for Reservists or providing flexibility for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers so they can carry out their volunteering commitments.”

The Employer Recognition Scheme

As organisations progress through the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), which is Defence’s way of recognising employers that go above and beyond, they build on these commitments. This might include offering up to 10 days of paid leave for active Reservists to complete their annual training commitments, or providing greater flexibility for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers around their work responsibilities.

Employers gain access to highly disciplined individuals with strong leadership skills. 

“As someone who left the Regular Army 17 years ago, I didn’t fully appreciate the value of leadership in civilian employment until I experienced workplaces where managers had little formal leadership training and had simply learned through experience.”

Members of the Armed Forces community bring proven leadership qualities. 

“One of the standout attributes for me is their ability to adapt and perform during periods of change. They are accustomed to operating in complex and demanding environments, which makes them resilient and highly effective when facing uncertainty. Another key quality is their moral and physical courage.”

Darren works with major organisations that directly support Defence, but also engage with hundreds, if not thousands, of businesses that demonstrate their support through the Armed Forces Covenant and the Employer Recognition Scheme.

“It is an absolute pleasure to serve as a Defence Relationship Manager in the West Midlands. More recently, we have seen the launch of the West Midlands Regional Defence and Security Cluster (RDSC), creating further opportunities for businesses across the region to engage with and support Defence.”

Celebrating Armed Forces Week

“Members of the Armed Forces community are often humble about their service, but whenever you have the opportunity, please take a moment to thank them. I encourage everyone to simply say: Happy Armed Forces Day.”

The post Armed Forces Week – Darren Knight, Reservist appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

She grew up in East London and, like many 16-year-olds leaving school, wasn’t sure what she wanted to do with her life.

Why Stacy Joined The Army

Back then, you looked through the newspaper for job opportunities, and Stacy came across one of the classic ‘The Army Wants You’ adverts. She loved physical training, so she told her mom that she wanted to join the Army.

“I loved training and running; I had competed in athletics for the South of England, so I thought, why not? My mum’s immediate response was no. Despite that, I went through all the selection processes and eventually joined the Army in May 1998.”

The Army gave her opportunities to travel the world and compete in a wide range of sports. She took part in athletics and cross-country running, but after suffering a knee injury early in her career, she realised that she needed to focus on something different. 

“It turned out I was quite a good swimmer, so I joined the Army swimming team and went on to compete at Inter-Service level.”

Building Lifelong Skills

Her Army career built resilience in ways she could never have imagined. During her later years of service, she took part in numerous endurance events. As her career progressed her mental endurance grew alongside her experience. 

“I remember being younger and thinking, ‘I can’t do that’. As I got older, that mindset changed. Instead, I found myself thinking, ‘I might think I can’t do that, but it’s not going to stop, so the only way forward is to finish it’.”

No matter what endurance challenge or charity event Stacy took part in, the feeling of crossing the finish line has always been immense.

“I left the Army in 2023 after an incredible 26 years of service. My husband is from Yorkshire and I’m from the South, so we wanted to find somewhere that worked for both of our families. We found our forever home in the Midlands, and it made perfect sense for us to settle there.”

“If you’re considering a career in the Army, or even volunteering, I would wholeheartedly encourage you to do it. It is one of the best decisions I have ever made. The transition from military life to civilian life is significant, but the opportunities available to you in the Army are extraordinary. Through the Army, I was able to go skiing, compete in swimming, take part in numerous charity events, and pursue challenges I would never otherwise have experienced.”

Throughout Stacy’s career, she was supported every step of the way. Her bosses were always incredibly encouraging, and the people around her constantly wanted to see her succeed. The Army gives you a community that helps build you up and supports you in achieving your goals.

“If my nine-year-old daughter or my sixteen-year-old son told me they wanted to join the Army, I would fully encourage them to do so.”

The post Armed Forces Week – Stacy Cleghorn, Veteran appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

These organisations have gone above and beyond in their support for the Armed Forces community, helping to create more forces-friendly workplaces and recognising the values that Reservists, Veterans, the Cadet movement, military families and service leavers bring.

There are 31 Silver Award recipients in total for the West Midlands region this year, with 331 nationally. This is a brilliant achievement and a proud moment for employers throughout the West Midlands and across the whole RFCA network.

Congratulations to:

Baily Garner

BeaverFit UK

Birmingham City FC Foundation

Birmingham Metropolitan College

Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

CS Comms Limited

ESCO Maritime Solutions

Housing Plus Group

Invictus Games Birmingham 2027

Kenilworth Rugby Club

Keys Group

McPhillips (Wellington) Limited

Micross Electronics Ltd

One Thousand Trades Group

Probation Delivery Unit Black Country

Quick Mortgages

RG Wilbrey (Consultants) Ltd

Ross-on-Wye Town Council

Sable Leigh Consultancy Ltd

Shropshire Community Foundation

Shropshire Community Leisure Trust Ltd

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council

Steatite Limited

Tallis Amos Group

The Association Of Vehicle Installers

Entrepreneurs Circle

Triple AAA Renovations Ltd

University College Birmingham

Walsall Community Association

Walsall Football Club Limited

West Midlands Police

Please join us in celebrating these organisations and the people behind their continued support for Defence.

The post Employer Recognition Scheme: Silver Awards 2026 appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.

At first, I was really against joining the Cadets, mainly because I had to wear a skirt. But because I was prone to quitting things before giving things a proper chance, my mum suggested I stick it out for six months. If I still didn’t like it after that, I could leave.

Saffron says there were many events and opportunities that changed her mind about the Cadets, but one experience stands out above all others: camp at Swynnerton.

The camp gave her the chance to build friendships across the Wing and take part in activities she would never have experienced elsewhere.

I reached the highest rank available to a cadet, Cadet Warrant Officer, and had some fantastic opportunities. Staying on as staff was a no-brainer. Once I had the opportunity, I knew I didn’t want to move to another squadron straight away. I wanted to stay in Oldbury, and that’s exactly what I did.

Last year, the previous Squadron Commander stepped down. Having already completed the commissioning process and become an officer within the organisation, Saffron felt it was the natural next step.

I’d always seen myself becoming a Squadron Commander one day, not necessarily at this squadron, but I always thought it would happen. I’m so happy it’s happened here because I’m able to give back to something that gave me so much.

Learning from Past Squadron Commanders

During her time as a cadet, Saffron served under four different Squadron Commanders. Each brought their own leadership style and left a lasting impression.

I’ve seen a lot of change and a lot of growth in the squadron, which has been really nice. All of my Squadron Commanders were very different, and I’ve taken something from each of them.

My last Squadron Commander is a personal friend and was an incredible mentor. He’s still involved in the organisation, which is great, and I think that shows how difficult it is to leave once you’ve experienced what the Cadets can offer.

For Saffron, the most rewarding part of volunteering is seeing young people succeed.

There’s something special about seeing cadets come together and achieve great things. It’s wonderful to know you’ve played a positive part in that. If it wasn’t for the cadets, their determination and positivity, I don’t think I’d feel the same way about it.

Become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer

If Saffron’s story has inspired you and you’d like to become a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer, you typically need to be 18 or older, pass a DBS (or equivalent) safeguarding check, and have an interest in mentoring youth. 

You do not need a military background to join. The quickest way to get started is to complete an online expression of interest on the official website of your chosen youth organisation.

The post Volunteers’ Week: From Cadet to Squadron Commander appeared first on West Midland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association.