The White Ensign Association is proud to announce it has been awarded the 2025 Silver Award under the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) – a prestigious honour that reflects our deep and ongoing support for the Armed Forces community.
This recognition places the Association among over 300 organisations across the UK commended this year for demonstrating exceptional commitment to those who serve, those who have served, and their families. To achieve Silver, employers must go beyond their Armed Forces Covenant pledges – offering paid leave for Reservist duties, flexible policies for military families, visible leadership backing, and proactive recruitment of veterans.
“We are honoured to receive the Silver Award,” said Commodore Stuart Wright, Chief Executive of the White Ensign Association. “It reflects our enduring commitment to the people we serve – supporting transitions, careers, financial wellbeing, and confident futures across the Naval community. We also take great pride in working alongside veteran-owned businesses and Forces-friendly employers who share these values.”
Every year, the White Ensign Association supports thousands of serving and former members of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Fleet Auxiliary and their families. Through expert, independent guidance on careers, finance, compensation and more, the Association helps individuals navigate a solid present and build a confident future – drawing on deep understanding of Naval life and its unique challenges.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme forms part of a wider effort to strengthen collaboration between Defence and civilian employers, building a more resilient Armed Forces ecosystem.
Major General Jamie Gordon, Chief Executive of the Council of Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations, said: “These Silver Award winners are trusted allies of defence. They don’t just talk about support—they show it, every day, through flexible policies, visible advocacy, and long-term commitment to those who serve. This is about more than good intentions, it’s about practical, sustained support that strengthens our national resilience. It is very pleasing that they have been recognised for all they do for our reservists, veterans and cadets.”
To learn more about the scheme and how organisations can get involved:
👉 GOV.UK: Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
