* 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 and Defence Industrial Strategy towards innovation, resilience, and sustainable industrial growth.
More than 200 employers – from FTSE 100 companies and emergency services, to local councils and high street names – have been recognised for their exceptional support to the Armed Forces community. These Gold Award winners show that supporting Defence is not just the right thing to do, it also makes strong business sense.
Since its launch in 2014, the Gold Award has become the highest badge of honour for employers who champion veterans, Reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and military families in the workplace. This year’s winners demonstrate the power of values-led leadership, creating more inclusive, resilient, and dynamic organisations.
Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns DSO OBE MC MP, said:
“Employers are crucial partners in protecting our security and boosting the economy. By backing veterans, Reservists, military families, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and the Cadet movement, these organisations build resilient communities and the innovation Defence needs. I congratulate them and thank them for their outstanding commitment.”
To achieve Gold, employers must:
* Provide at least 10 days’ additional paid leave for Reservists
* Implement HR policies for veterans and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers
* Advocate for Defence across their networks and sectors
* Demonstrate sustained commitment well beyond the minimum requirements
These organisations lead by example, helping to shift national attitudes and raise standards across their sectors.
West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadet Association would like to congratulate and thank the nineteen winners from their region, who are:
Herefordshire – Separ International Limited
Shropshire – Donnington & Muxton Parish Council, RAF Museum, Shropshire Chamber of Commerce, The Shrewsbury & Telford Hospitals NHS Trust
Staffordshire – ArB Tree Care (Specialists) Ltd, Benx Limited, Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, OAJ Limited t/a Belvoir Stafford and Stone, Tri Services and Veterans Support Centre
Warwickshire – George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Godiva Limited, Veterans Contact Point, Wigley Investment Holdings Limited
West Midlands – Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust, Mac Surfacing Limited, Modality Partnership, The Phoenix Collegiate
Worcestershire – RT Consulting
A regional awards event to present these organisation with their Gold Awards will be held in the Autumn.
To find out more about the Employer Recognition Scheme please visit – https://www.wmrfca.org/employers/employer-recognition-scheme/
To view the full list of organisations to hold Gold please visit – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-employer-recognition-scheme
Published 21/07/2025
