Over 200 business from across the UK and 19 from the South West region, have been recognised for their outstanding support to the Armed Forces Community.
-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 highest is the badge of honour for employers who support the Armed Forces Community and uphold the Armed Forces Covenant
-Announcements 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.
From global finance and property to healthcare, retail and local government, this year’s recipients highlight the growing range and depth of employer support.
David McGinley Chief Executive Officer of APCL Group said:
“I am delighted that APCL A&P Falmouth has achieved such a prestigious award in recognition of our commitment to the Armed Forces.
“Not only are we proud to serve the UK Ministry of Defence through our dedicated Defence Division, but also count a number of former service personnel as some of our most valued employees.
“We have pledged an additional 10 days paid leave to our Reservist and Cadet Adult Forces Volunteer employees – allowing them to carry out crucial training and service to our country.
“This award truly showcases our commitment as a Group to hiring Veterans, Reservists and Cadet Adult Forces Volunteers into our workforce, and supporting them as they progress through our business.
“Our commitment to the armed forces lies at the heart of our business and everything we do.”
Jops Hill, Social Value & FAIR Co Ordinator of Heidelberg Materials UK:
“Receiving the Gold Award is a tremendous honour and a reflection of our deep-rooted commitment to the armed forces and cadet instructors within Heidelberg Materials UK. It recognises not only our policies, but the culture we’ve built – one that values service, supports transition, and celebrates the unique strengths of those within this community.
We proudly champion the Armed Forces Covenant across our sector, encouraging our supply chain and partners to sign up and progress through the Employer Recognition Scheme. We lead by example, offering enhanced paid leave for Reservists and Cadet Instructors, maintaining open communication with line managers, and ensuring flexibility around training and deployment.
Our support extends to the Cadet movement through sponsorship, volunteering, and mentoring opportunities in 2026 – helping young people develop skills and confidence for the future. We actively work with the Career Transition Partnership and Forces Families Jobs to welcome Service leavers and military families into our workforce, recognising the value they bring.
The 19 organisations in the South West who have been awarded Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards 2025 are:
AXIAH Ltd
Naval Solutions Ltd
P Cubed Projects Ltd
Aspire Defence Limited
Betaris Training Ltd
BIT Group
Brigantes Consulting Ltd
Cervus Defence & Security Ltd
Montpellier Public Relations Ltd
Nautilus International Risk Consultants Ltd
Regent’s Park Healthcare Limited
Take Point Training Limited
Bridges Electrical Engineers Limited
Code 9 Security Ltd
FR Aviation Limited
Somerset Integrated Care Board
The Armishaws Group
A & P Group Ltd
Heidelberg Materials UK
