Celebrations as 17 Ministry of Defence Silver ERS Award winners are announced in Wales
Source: gov.uk (2025-06-17)

17 organisations in Wales have been awarded the 2025 Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award among more than 300 nationally.

Employers in Wales that have actively demonstrated their support for the armed forces community through implementing practical policies in the workplace have been recognised with the prestigious Defence Silver ERS Award.

The 17 Welsh winners will be invited to receive their award as honoured guests at a Royal Gun Salute ceremony at the Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay, on 17 July.

The 17 recipients are:
- Active4Blood
- Andy Swan Driver Services Ltd
- Bulldogs Boxing and Community Activities
- Cobra Life Martial Arts Ltd
- Events Medical Team - Saltney Ltd
- Henry Williams and Son (Roads) Ltd
- Platts Group
- Riverside Retreat Veterans Camp CIC
- Shadow Response Security & Medical Ltd
- The Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum Trust
- Business in Focus Limited
- IG Doors Limited
- MPH Construction
- Powys Teaching Health Board
- R&M Williams Limited
- V3 Group (UK) Ltd
- Bridgend College
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.

Gareth Jones, Veterans Project Manager, Bulldogs Boxing and Community Activities, said:

Bulldogs BCA is incredibly proud and deeply honoured to have been awarded the Silver Award as part of the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting the armed forces community, including veterans, reservists, and their families.

We are thrilled that our efforts to provide opportunities, understanding, and practical support have been acknowledged at such a prestigious level. This award not only highlights the values at the heart of Bulldogs BCA, but also strengthens our resolve to continue championing those who have served our country with dedication and respect.

To achieve Silver, organisations must proactively demonstrate that the armed forces community are not unfairly disadvantaged as part of their recruitment policies. They must also ensure that their workforce is aware of the policies that benefit defence personnel, including reservists, veterans, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and military families.

The scheme has 3 levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold, awarded to organisations that support defence personnel and encourage others to do the same.

Mr Craig Middle, the MOD’s DRM for South Wales, said:

Achieving the Silver ERS award has been a journey for all of our deserved winners. This journey has involved an exploration into what all aspects of the defence community can do for their teams. Many congratulations to all of this year’s winners - we look forward to celebrating with them in person next month.

Find out how your organisation can support the armed forces community through the Armed Forces Covenant and Defence Employer Recognition Scheme:
- Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-employer-recognition-scheme)
- Armed Forces Covenant (https://www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk/)
Contact

Craig Middle, Defence Relationship Manager (DRM) for South Wales:
- xxx@xxx.xx (mailto:xxx@xxx.xx)
- Cardiff office: xx-xxxx-xxxx
Tony Fish, Defence Relationship Manager (DRM) for North Wales:
- xxx@xxx.xx (mailto:xxx@xxx.xx)
- Mold office: xx-xxxx-xxxx