Awarded prestigious Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award

Valley Veterans is one of eight organisations in Wales, among 162 nationally, who have been awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award 2026 in recognition of 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.

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."

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.

Now in its twelfth 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.