Employer Partnership is Key to the UK ‘s Vision for Defence

The vital role of the UK’s Reserves and the indispensable support of employers is at the heart of the Strategic Defence Review 2025 (SDR).

Released in June, the SDR signals a transformation in British defence thinking – one that places renewed emphasis on the role of the nation’s Reserves and the vital contribution of employers in enabling Reserve service.

As the UK moves for the first time in a generation towards ‘war-fighting readiness’ employers stand at the juncture between defence and society, supporting Reservists whose experience strengthens both military capability and the civilian workplace.

In Wales, these themes resonate powerfully, shaped both by the nation’s rich military tradition through regiments such as the Royal Welsh and the active engagement of Welsh businesses in strengthening defence capability.

Reserves as a national asset

The UK Armed Forces depend on Reserve personnel to maintain operational capability. There are currently around 30,000 trained Reserves across the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force and the Strategic Defence Review sets out an ambition to increase this force by 20% when funding allows.

There are c. 1,400 Reservists in Wales who bring essential civilian skills and expertise directly into defence.

They enable the Armed Forces to scale efforts during crises and emergencies, such as the mobilisation of Welsh Reservists during Operation Rescript for the COVID-19 response.

And they strengthen operational capacity for both local UK and international deployments, showing the value of ‘citizen soldiers’ in peace and crisis alike.

Upon returning to civilian roles, Welsh Reservists enrich local businesses and public services with advanced leadership, crisis-management and technical skills honed through military training and operations.

Employer partnership as a strategic imperative

But no Reserve force can succeed without employers. Welsh businesses are critical partners in national defence; your support underpins the ‘citizen soldier’ system that has served the country for generations. Employer flexibility, such as allowing paid leave for training, directly enables Reserves to fulfil their duties.

Mutual benefit framework

Reservist employees bring leadership, problem-solving and resilience skills developed through military training straight into your business. Regular Reserve service promotes management confidence, adaptability, effective teamwork and rapidly strengthens decision-making ability.

Training often includes project management, logistics, crisis response and technical expertise directly applicable to commercial challenges. When Reservists return from exercises or operations, they bring with them fresh perspectives and enhanced capabilities, creating a workforce that’s agile and ready to handle anything.

Welsh companies such as Admiral Group and Transport for Wales have publicly highlighted the positive impact of Reservists, citing improved communication, innovation and crisis-management skills. During the COVID-19 pandemic response Welsh Reservists mobilized at speed, applying problem-solving abilities honed through military training to support NHS Wales and local councils.

Throughout the UK some 13,000 organisations have signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) including a growing number in Wales.
By signing the Armed Forces Covenant businesses commit to fair treatment for those who serve or have served, and their families. This covers employment, education, healthcare and housing support. By signing the Covenant, a straightforward process, employers publicly align with these commitments and show they value the military community.

Welsh employers have often gone ‘above and beyond,’ with more than 50 businesses ranging from local councils to major construction and technology firms in the past two years recognised with Silver and Gold Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) awards. The ERS offers Bronze,

Silver and Gold awards to businesses demonstrating Armed Forces-friendly policies, proactive employee support including flexible leave for training and deployment. These awards unlock recognition, networking opportunities and the potential for defence contract consideration.

How can your business take part?

• Sign the Armed Forces Covenant: Show Wales is at the forefront of employer support. Armed Forces Covenant: guidance and support – GOV.UK
• Apply for Employer Recognition Scheme: Gain recognition for outstanding practice. Defence Employer Recognition Scheme – GOV.UK
• Support the Reserves: Discover more about Reserve roles in the Army, RAF, and Royal Navy. Army Reserve (part-time) RAF Recruitment | Reserves | Royal Air Force Royal Navy | Reserves
• Contact RFCA for Wales: For tailored advice and connection to local Reserve units –
  Tony Fish, Defence Relationship Manager (DRM) for North Wales, wa-reed2@rfca.mod.uk Mold Office. Mob: 07508 193902
  Craig Middle, Defence Relationship Manager (DRM) for South Wales, wa-reed@rfca.mod.uk Cardiff Office Mob: 07970 493086

Whether through signing the Covenant, joining the Employer Recognition Scheme, or simply learning more about Reserve opportunities, now is the time for Welsh businesses to lead by example. As the UK faces new threats, the relationship between employers and the Reserves is more important than ever. Reserve service, enabled by supportive employers, not only safeguards national security but enriches the civilian workforce with vital, modern skills.