Southampton City Council has once more received Gold accreditation to the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme for its exceptional work in supporting the Armed Forces Covenant. The scheme is managed by the Ministry of Defence.
This prestigious award, which was initially given to the council in 2020, has been revalidated for another five years and underscores its unwavering commitment to ensuring fair access to employment, training, and workplace support for serving personnel, veterans, reservists, and their families.
Achieving Gold status reflects best practice in inclusion and partnership working, positioning Southampton as a leading authority in delivering the Covenant’s promise that no one is disadvantaged by military service. Southampton City Council’s efforts demonstrate how local government can champion national priorities while strengthening community ties.
Southampton City Council has achieved this accreditation through initiatives such as its Armed Forces Covenant Networking Group, who meet quarterly to network, support and share information. This group is open to any Southampton organisation who has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, or who have received ERS accreditation, whether this is Bronze, Silver or Gold.
The council has also revamped its web pages, so they provide key advice and support for members of the armed forces community.
Councillor Matthew Bunday and Councillor Jacqui Rayment are the council’s designated Armed Forces Champions, tasked with supporting the local armed forces community. They work to ensure veterans, reservists, and their families are not disadvantaged by their service, upholding the Armed Forces Covenant.
Robert Henderson, Executive Director Community Wellbeing, Children & Learning (DASS & DCS) at Southampton City Council, said: “This recognition highlights the hard work and collaboration of our teams in delivering the Armed Forces Covenant. By embedding best practice into our policies and services, we are making sure that no one is disadvantaged because of their military service. We look forward to continuing this important work for years to come.”
Councillor Toqeer Katara, Cabinet Member for Communities & Safer City at Southampton City Council, said: “We are immensely proud to receive this Gold Standard accreditation. It reflects our dedication to supporting the armed forces community and ensuring that those who serve, and their families, have equal opportunities and access to services. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to inclusion and partnership working across Southampton.”
Andrew Gibbs, South East Defence Relationship Manager, South East Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association, said: ‘On behalf of SERFCA, attaining and maintaining the standards required to achieve the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award signifies the highest standard and commitment to supporting the armed forces community. The council has maintained its advocacy to the highest levels and are thoroughly deserving of this award’.
