NHS Somerset has been awarded Gold Employer Status in recognition of its commitment as an organisation that supports the armed forces community. The ‘Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS)’ is awarded by the Government to employers that pledge, demonstrate and advocate support to the Armed Forces. There are three levels of award with gold being the highest. Only 200 employers nationally have achieved this status, and in 2025 NHS Somerset is proud to be one of them.
Teri Underwood, Community Lead for the Armed Forces in NHS Somerset said:
“We are delighted and very proud to have achieved this status. It underpins our commitment as an employer and as an organisation to the military community across our county. We recognise that members of the Armed Forces bring a vast range of transferrable skills to our organisation and are highly valued; we also acknowledge the considerable level of service of our reservists in supporting the regular Armed Forces personnel and the cadet force adult volunteers. As an NHS organisation we are proud to deliver innovative and tailored support to the needs of our Somerset Armed Forces population”.
The Employers Recognition Scheme (ERS) is designed primarily to recognise private sector support although public sector organisations such as the emergency services, local authorities, NHS trusts and executive agencies are also eligible to be recognised. Gold Award Holders proactively advocate and support defence, communicating their commitment both to employees and the wider community through established policies and examples of support.
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.”
