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The Ministry of Defence has announced that 331 organisations from across the UK have achieved the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for 2026, recognising their sustained commitment to supporting the armed forces community.
Many congratulations to our 13 Silver Awardees for having gained this prestigious award:
- Barnard Castle School
- Carbon Arc Training and Certification Limited
- Darlington Building Society
- IncluScape
- K2 Construction Management
- Mantank Environmental Services Limited
- Newmedica Newcastle
- Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd
- PH Estate Agents Limited
- RIGHT TRAX Ltd
- Sarens UK Ltd
- Tees Valley Combined Authority
- Veterans for Veterans In Care
The ERS Silver Award celebrates employers who are actively creating supportive environments for Reservists, veterans, the Cadet movement and military families. These organisations demonstrate that support for Defence is not simply symbolic, but embedded within workplace culture, policies and leadership.
Silver Award recipients are recognised for initiatives such as:
- additional leave for reservist training and mobilisation support
- active veteran recruitment and retention policies
- flexible support for military families
- visible leadership endorsement of the Armed Forces Covenant
Major General Marc Overton (MSHQ-ACDS RFC), said:
“Congratulations to all organisations receiving the ERS Silver Award this year. These employers are making a meaningful contribution to Defence by supporting those who serve, while recognising the enormous value that Reservists, veterans and military families bring to the workforce”.
“As a Reservist myself, I know how important employer support is. The flexibility, understanding and advocacy shown by organisations across the UK enables our people to balance civilian careers with service commitments, strengthening both Defence and society as a whole.”
“In today’s increasingly uncertain global environment, strong partnerships between Defence and employers are more important than ever. The commitment shown by this year’s Silver Award holders helps ensure the UK maintains resilient, capable and adaptable armed forces for the future.”
Mr John Hambling, Chairman, Veterans for Veterans in Care, said:
“Receiving the Silver Employer Recognition Scheme Award is a significant achievement for our organisation. It demonstrates our commitment to supporting those who serve, or have served, in the Armed Forces, as well as their families. We are proud to play our part in supporting the Armed Forces community”.
Brigadier Paul Baker, Chief Executive, North of England RFCA said:
“There has always been great support for the Armed Forces within the North East of England but the number of companies prepared to publicly demonstrate this support is truly heartening proof not only that such support continues, but that it grows, especially in such challenging times when the resilience of the Nation is so important. These Silver Employer Recognition Scheme Awards are recognition of the tremendous backing and encouragement these organisations provide to their employees who are also Reservists, Adult Volunteers within the Cadet Forces, Veterans and their families. Thank you, and well done to everyone involved.”