2024 Defence ERS silver and gold award nominations are now open
The Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encourages organisations across the UK to publicly demonstrate their support of the Armed Forces Community, including reservists, veterans, wounded, injured and sick, cadet instructors and military spouses/partners.
Every year an increasing number of organisations are pledging to support those who have served their country and the Armed Forces community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant, a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served, and their families, are treated fairly.
The ERS scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community and align their values with the Armed forces Covenant.
Since the start of this programme in 2014, we have observed a positive impact and an increase in support for Armed Forces reservists within the NHS workforce. This includes:
205 NHS trusts and 12 ICBs in England have signed the Armed Forces Covenant
198 NHS trusts in England awarded an Employer Recognition Scheme Award (52 bronze, 69 silver, 77 gold)
12 ICBs in England have been awarded an Employer Recognition Scheme award (7 bronze, 2 silver, 3 gold)
Further information on the three levels of commitment for organisations wishing to pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to the Armed Forces community, are available on the government website.
Key dates
ERS gold award
Express an interest to nominate your organisation for the gold award. Expressions of Interest must be fully completed via the link and sent by 13 February 2024.
ERS silver award
Express an interest to nominate your organisation for the silver award. Expressions of Interest must be fully completed and submitted by 18 March 2024.
ERS bronze award
More guidance on your journey through the ERS awards
Read our case studies from NHS organisations across bronze, silver and gold.
Connect with us
Sign up for our regular engagement and networking sessions including Community Connect and the Step into Health Network call. Our informal online sessions create a safe space to network, collaborate, share good practice and hear from key speakers across the NHS and Ministry of Defence.
Social media
Follow @NHSEArmedForces on X (Twitter) and sign up to our mailing list for updates on all Armed Forces network events.
