Gold award for North Northamptonshire Council’s continued commitment to the Armed Forces community
Communities22 July 2025
North Northamptonshire Council has been awarded the prestigious Gold Award in the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), recognising its exceptional and sustained support for the Armed Forces community.
The ERS Gold Award is the highest level of recognition for organisations that go above and beyond in supporting defence personnel, including Reservists, veterans, military families, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs). Building on its Silver Award status, the council has deepened its commitment through a wide range of initiatives.
These include providing six days of additional paid leave for CFAVs, distributing discretionary grants to local Sea, Army, and Air Cadet units, and supporting fundraising efforts such as the Kettering Half Marathon in aid of 1101 (Kettering & District) Squadron RAF Air Cadets. The Council has also hosted and supported events like the ‘Conversation with Cadets’ and Armed Forces Day celebrations and commemorations held for the 80th anniversary of VE Day.
Internally, the council has strengthened its support for employees connected to the Armed Forces by updating HR policies, enhancing online training for staff and line managers, and raising awareness of the unique needs of Reservists and military families.
This award is a testament to North Northamptonshire Council’s active support for the Armed Forces community, from Reservists to cadets and service families. We are proud to turn our Covenant pledge into real, lasting impact.Cllr Gregory Wilcox, Executive Member for Communities.
This recognition also highlights the vital role that service personnel, veterans, and their families play in our communities. We are proud to stand alongside them and will continue to champion their needs at every level, ensuring our policies and practices reflect the value we place on the Armed Forces community.
We must always remember our brave members of the Armed Forces past and present and the sacrifices that they have made in service to our country. This award honours each and every one of them.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council.
You can find out more about how the council supports the Armed Forces across the area on the council’s dedicated Armed Forces Covenant web pages.