Seventeen of Wales’ top forces-friendly employers have been recognised with a prestigious award.
The organisations from across Wales were presented with the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for 2025.
Representatives from the receiving organisations were awarded at a special event held at the Pierhead Building in Cardiff Bay, where they were also honoured guests at the 21 Gun Royal Salute to celebrate the birthday of Her Majesty the Queen.
Guests were welcomed by Sian Lloyd, the host for the awards ceremony, with the opening address given by Air Officer Wales, Air Commodore Rob Woods OBE. The close was given by Brigadier Russ Wardle OBE DL, chair of the Reserves Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales.
The recipients were:
- Active4Blood
- Andy Swan Driver Services Ltd
- Bulldogs Boxing and Community Activities
- Cobra Life Martial Arts Ltd
- Events Medical Team – Saltney Ltd
- Henry Williams and Son (Roads) Ltd
- Platts Group
- Riverside Retreat Veterans Camp CIC
- Shadow Response Security & Medical Ltd
- The Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum Trust
- Business in Focus Limited
- IG Doors Limited
- MPH Construction
- Powys Teaching Health Board
- R&M Williams Limited
- V3 Group (UK) Ltd
- Bridgend College
The awards were presented jointly by Brigadier Mark Davis CBE, Commander of 160th (Welsh) Brigade, Head of the Army in Wales, Commodore Tris Kirkwood OBE ADC, Naval Regional Commander Wales, Western England and Channel Islands and Air Commodore Rob Woods OBE.
Under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, the Silver ERS Award recognises employers who have actively demonstrated their support for the Armed Forces community through implementing practical policies in the workplace.
To achieve Silver, organisations must proactively demonstrate that the Armed Forces community are not unfairly disadvantaged as part of their recruitment policies. They must also actively ensure their workforce is aware of their positive policies towards Defence people issues for Reservists, Veterans, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.
Gareth Jones, Veterans Project Manager, Bulldogs Boxing and Community Activities, said:
“Bulldogs BCA is incredibly proud and deeply honoured to have been awarded the Silver Award as part of the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists, and their families.
“We are thrilled that our efforts to provide opportunities, understanding, and practical support have been acknowledged at such a prestigious level. This award not only highlights the values at the heart of Bulldogs BCA but also strengthens our resolve to continue championing those who have served our country with dedication and respect.”
Craig Middle, the MOD’s DRM for South Wales said:
“Achieving the Silver ERS award has been a journey for all of our deserved winners. This journey has involved an exploration into what all aspects of the Defence community can do for their teams.”
