Eight employers in Wales are among 162 who have been awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award 2026 for their outstanding support towards the Armed Forces community.
Representing the highest badge of honour, the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award is awarded to those that employ and support those who serve in the Armed Forces, veterans and their families.
The firms are:
- OLLYWOOD LTD
- Valley Veterans
- Helix Operations Ltd
- Platts Group
- Powys Teaching Health Board
- R & M WILLIAMS
- Powys County Council
- KLA UK Corporation Limited
Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey MBE MP, said:
“For a veteran starting a new chapter, or a Reservist balancing two demanding roles, having an employer in your corner makes an enormous difference.
“These 162 organisations have gone out of their way to make veterans, Reservists and military families feel genuinely welcome and supported. I'm incredibly proud to recognise them today, and I hope their example inspires many more.”
To achieve Gold Award status, employers must demonstrate that they:
- provide at least 10 days' additional paid leave for Reservists each year
- have supportive HR policies for reservists, service families, veterans and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers
- actively promote the Armed Forces Covenant and encourage others to support defence
- demonstrate long-term, proactive commitment that exceeds the scheme's baseline requirements
Gold Award holders play an important role in encouraging other organisations to strengthen their support for the Armed Forces community, helping to build a more inclusive workforce while supporting Defence's people agenda and strengthening the nation's resilience, the MoD said.
Now in its 12th year, the ERS Gold Award continues to celebrate employers that go beyond their Armed Forces Covenant commitments by embedding forces-friendly policies, advocating for defence and creating inclusive workplaces where veterans, Reservists, military families and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers can thrive.
To find out more about the ERS and how your organisation could support Defence personnel in the workplace through the Armed Forces Covenant contact:
Craig Middle, Defence Relationship Manager (DRM) for South Wales, wa-reed@rfca.mod.uk Cardiff Office Mob: 07970 493086
Tony Fish, Defence Relationship Manager (DRM) for North Wales, wa-reed2@rfca.mod.uk Mold Office. Mob: 07508 193902
