At Churchill Group, Armed Forces Week is more than a moment of recognition, it’s a reflection of our ongoing commitment to those who serve and have served in the Armed Forces. From veterans to reservists and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs), we proudly stand with the Armed Forces community, and our actions speak louder than words.
A forces-friendly employer in action
We are proud to have achieved the Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, the highest accolade recognising employers who demonstrate exceptional support to the Armed Forces community. This award reflects years of consistent effort, from developing forces-friendly policies to building meaningful partnerships that deliver real change.
Our Volunteer Reserve Forces and Cadet Force Adult Volunteer Leave Policy ensures that colleagues serving as reservists or CFAVs are supported every step of the way. We offer up to 10 days of paid and 10 days of unpaid leave annually for training commitments and ensure full protection of employment rights during periods of mobilisation.
When our reservists are called upon to serve, we make it a priority to stay connected, ensure their reintegration upon return, and recognise the unique skills and experiences they bring back to the business. We also ensure all policies reflect our obligations under the Armed Forces Covenant, which we proudly uphold across every part of the Churchill Group.
Partnering with Walking With The Wounded
This year, we’ve strengthened our commitment to veterans through a new partnership with Walking With The Wounded (WWTW). This collaboration supports employment, training, and wellbeing for those transitioning out of the Armed Forces.
Together, we’re creating new opportunities within our business, helping veterans access training, job placements, and mentoring support. We’re also working to build a more inclusive workplace culture by improving hiring practices and signposting mental health resources through WWTW.
This partnership builds on our values and our pledge under the Armed Forces Covenant, ensuring that veterans and their families feel supported, understood, and welcomed at every stage of their journey.
Find out more about the partnership here.
Supporting ex-military careers
We recognise that moving from military service to civilian life can be a significant change. That’s why we are committed to providing meaningful career opportunities tailored to veterans. Through dedicated recruitment programmes and ongoing support, we help ex-military personnel find roles where their skills, like leadership, discipline, and problem-solving, are valued and developed. From application guidance to onboarding and training, we strive to make the transition as smooth and rewarding as possible. This approach reflects our broader commitments under the Armed Forces Covenant and strengthens our position as a truly forces-friendly employer.
Making a difference through meaningful actions
Support doesn’t always have to be big to matter. Sometimes, it’s the simple things that have the most impact. Every Thursday, one of our colleagues volunteers with Coming Home (Community Veterans Support) in Glasgow. He helps serve lunch, tidies up, and spends time with the veterans, playing pool and keeping them company. It’s a small gesture that brings a lot of joy, and it’s just one example of how we try to show up for the communities we care about.
In Manchester, another colleague led the way in organising a coffee morning at Victoria train station. With several former military officers working within their team, it became an opportunity for colleagues and members of the public to come together in appreciation of their service. It was a simple idea that created a meaningful connection and highlighted how our people continue to make a difference in their own ways.
These everyday contributions, alongside our wider policies and partnerships, are what help us live up to our commitment to being a genuinely forces-friendly employer.
A week of recognition, a year-round commitment
As we mark Armed Forces Week, we want to say thank you. To all our colleagues who serve as reservists or CFAVs, to veterans across our business, and to the organisations we’re proud to work alongside, we’re grateful for everything you bring. We recognise that there’s always more we can do, and we remain committed to creating a workplace where the Armed Forces community feels respected, supported, and empowered, not just this week, but throughout the year.