Dorset HealthCare has been awarded the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award – the Ministry of Defence's highest honour for organisations that demonstrate exceptional support for the Armed Forces community.
The Trust was one of just 162 organisations across the UK to receive the award this year, recognising its long-term commitment to supporting veterans, reservists, military families and cadet force adult volunteers.
This marks a significant milestone for the Trust and reinforces the wider commitment across Dorset to supporting the Armed Forces community. It also builds on the county's continued efforts to strengthen support for those who serve or have served in the military.
Matthew Bryant, Dorset HealthCare’s Chief Executive, said:
“Achieving gold status reflects the work of colleagues across the Trust to create a forces-friendly workplace, with policies and support that go beyond our Armed Forces Covenant commitments. It shows that we actively champion the Armed Forces community and offer sustained, proactive support to serving personnel, veterans and their families.
"We recognise the invaluable skills, resilience and leadership that serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families bring to our workforce and the care we provide. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where the Armed Forces community feels valued and supported, both as colleagues and patients. Receiving this Gold Award is a testament to that commitment.
“I’d like to thank everyone across the Trust who has contributed to achieving this important recognition.”
Read more about support available to the local Armed Forces community.
Find out more about the Employer Recognition Scheme and its criteria.
