STF EARNS 2025 GOLD ERS AWARD FOR SUPPORT TO ARMED FORCES!

The Standing Tall Foundation is incredibly proud to have been recognised with the prestigious Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) for 2025.

More than 200 employers – from FTSE 100 companies and emergency services, to local councils and high street names – have been recognised for their exceptional support to the Armed Forces community. These Gold Award winners show that supporting Defence is not just the right thing to do, it also makes strong business sense.

Since its launch in 2014, the Gold Award has become the highest badge of honour for employers who champion veterans, Reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and military families in the workplace. This year’s winners demonstrate the power of values-led leadership, creating more inclusive, resilient, and dynamic organisations.

Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns DSO OBE MC MP, said:

“Employers are crucial partners in protecting our security and boosting the economy. By backing veterans, Reservists, military families, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and the Cadet movement, these organisations build resilient communities and the innovation Defence needs. I congratulate them and thank them for their outstanding commitment.”

To achieve Gold, employers must:

These organisations lead by example, helping to shift national attitudes and raise standards across their sectors.

From global finance and property to healthcare, retail and local government, this year’s recipients highlight the growing range and depth of employer support.

Our Co-Founder Andy Reid MBE says: ” We are extremely proud to be recognised for the Gold Award. The Veteran community will always be at the heart of what we do and we always try and support them and their families in the best way we can. Our weekly Ex-services group continues to grow and we remain committed to helping our Armed Forces Community.”