Our Armed Forces Network is a non-exclusive group which is open to all NHSBSA employees and has a mix of armed forces veterans, those who have a general interest in the armed forces, reservist, cadet volunteers, and those with a family member who once served or is still serving.
This network provides a place for the Armed Forces Community to come together and share ideas and best practice, supporting each other to make the NHSBSA a great place to work.
This network feeds into the wider diversity and inclusion colleague network and links with our other lived experience colleague networks. These are LGBT+, BAME, Disability and Neurodiversity, and women.
The purpose of the Armed Forces Network
The network aims to:
- provide a space for all NHSBSA colleagues and allies to come together as a support network for one another
- be a 'critical friend' of the NHSBSA, to help identify issues and barriers in relation to NHSBSA policies, procedures, and practices
- promote Armed Forces specific awareness and learning across the NHSBSA
- be visible role models across the NHSBSA
NHSBSA awarded Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold award
We have achieved the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold award, the Ministry of Defence’s highest level of recognition for employers who support and advocate for the Armed Forces Community.
The award celebrates commitment towards those who serve, veterans, and their families, and recognises the organisation as a ‘forces friendly’ employer.
Michael Brodie, CEO, said:
"We’re absolutely delighted to have been recognised with this award. We value our colleagues very highly at NHSBSA and we proudly work together as an organisation to support the Armed Forces community.”
To win an award, organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for Reservists and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, Reserves, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, as well as spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.
The award is a huge achievement and demonstrates our commitment to the Armed Forces Community.
View more information on the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
The Armed Forces Network launches its first live event
The network is pleased to announce the launch of its first live virtual event. This is being delivered in collaboration with our newly formed ‘Veteran Support Partnership’, consisting of a variety of employers and veteran support organisations.