The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encourages employers to support the Armed Force community and to inspire others to do the same. The ERS is designed primarily to recognise private sector support although public sector organisations such as the emergency services, local authorities, NHS trusts and executive agencies are also eligible to be recognised.
The scheme encompasses Bronze, Silver and Gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to the Armed Forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
The Armed Forces community consists of those currently serving, Reservists, Veterans and their families.
Nomination and award process
Employers can sign up themselves for each award. Nominations will be validated to determine the level of defence personnel employment within the nominated organisation and to check that the organisation has signed the Armed Forces Covenant.
Once the nomination has been validated it will be considered by a selection board at national level for Gold awards and regional level for Silver awards. The selection boards will be a panel chaired by a senior military officer and they will consider each nomination against the award criteria.
Bronze Award
Bronze Award holders:
- are self-nominated by employers who pledge to support the Armed Forces community, including existing or prospective employees who are members of the community
- must have signed the Armed Forces Covenant
- promote being Armed Forces-friendly and are open to employing Reservists, Veterans, cadet instructors and military spouses/ partners
- receive an electronic certificate and logos to display on their website, stationery and other collatera
Nominate your organisation for a Bronze AwardSilver Award
You are now able to express your organisation's interest in the ERS Silver Award. The deadline to express your interest is 11:59pm on 16 April 2021. Applicants may register using the following link:
Register interest in the Silver AwardGold Award
As a Silver Award holder, you can express your organisation's interest in the ERS Gold Award. The deadline to express your interest is 11:59pm on 17 March 2021. Applicants may register using the following link:
Register interest in the Gold AwardIf you have any questions regarding nominations, please email employerrelations@rfca.mod.uk