One of our core functions is to maintain active engagement and relationships with employers to connect them with Defence. We inform them of the activities we undertake and the valuable contributions made by Reservists, Adult Instructors and Cadets.
In the South East we currently have:
1720+
AFC
Signatories
749+
Bronze
Employer Recognition Scheme Award Holders
160
Silver
Employer Recognition Scheme Award Holders
154
Gold
Employer Recognition Scheme Award Holders
The full list of organisations who have been awarded their Gold and Silver Employer Recognition Scheme Award status in 2025 can be found here
How to get involved:
Have you signed the Armed Forces Covenant?
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.
The government is committed to supporting the armed forces community by working with a range of partners who have signed the covenant. The covenant is a national responsibility involving government, businesses, local authorities, charities and the public.
For more information, please visit Armed Forces Covenant
Are you an Employer Recognition Scheme holder?
The Employer Recognition Scheme encourages employers to support defence and inspire other organisations to do the same.
The scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and align their values with the armed forces covenant.
For more information please visit Employer Recognition Scheme
Financial Support for Employers of Reservists
You can claim financial support if a reservist you employ is called up. Do not pay their salary or pension contributions while they’re away – the Ministry of Defence (MOD) pays these costs.
You can claim financial assistance to cover:
- The cost of a temporary replacement if it’s more than the reservist’s salary (up to £110 a day)
- Advertising costs and agency fees for finding a replacement
- A period of handover and takeover (5 days before and after mobilisation)
- 75% of the cost of specialist clothing for the replacement (up to £300)
- training costs for the replacement (up to £2,000)
- Overtime, if other employees cover the work
- Training the reservist needs to carry on their job when they return
For more information, click here.
Benefits of Partnering with Defence in the South East
Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Kent, East and West Sussex, Hampshire and Isle of Wight
Attend Events
The Employer Engagement team host a variety of events that highlight the vast skillset that the Reservists and Adult Volunteers bring to the workplace. The support of the employer is essential to enable them to undergo training and to maximise their professionalism in their additional and voluntary role.
Once you are signed up, the team will inform you of these events and give you the opportunity to attend as and when they are organised.
If you would like more information, please contact our Regional Employer Engagement Administrative Officer
Meet the Team
Group Captain Keith Lane RAF (Retd)
Head of Engagement
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