How Bolton is supporting the town's - and the country's
Since its launch in 2014, the Gold Award has become the highest badge of honour for employers that champion veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers and military families in the workplace.
The scheme recognises employers who go above and beyond in supporting defence to renew the nation's contract with those who serve or have served.
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More: 'It's in our blood': Bolton veterans celebrate Armed Forces Day 2025
To achieve the Gold Award, employers must:
provide at least 10 days' additional paid leave for reservists
implement HR policies for veterans and cadet force adult volunteers
advocate for defence across their networks and sectors
demonstrate sustained commitment well beyond the minimum requirements
As well as establishing an internal, cross-council Armed Forces Network for veterans and facilitating events throughout the year to celebrate those who make up the community, the council continues to make sure it meets its responsibilities and actively promotes the Armed Forces Covenant.
Bolton Council Leader, Cllr Nick Peel, said: 'We are all incredibly proud to receive the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award.
'This award recognises that we deliver on our promise to honour the service of our armed forces, and that we do what we can to help our veterans, and their families.
'Bolton Council is proud to support the armed forces and make sure those who serve feel respected and looked after.'
Cllr Ryan Bamforth, Bolton Council's Armed Forces Champion, said: 'Bolton has always had a strong connection with the armed forces community, and we are immensely proud to accept the Gold Award for the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
'As someone with 20 years' service in the British Army, I know how important it is that we support our veterans and their families, as well as reservists and everyone involved in the Cadet movement.
'As Bolton Council's Armed Forces Champion I will ensure we keep up this excellent work so all members of the armed forces community feel valued, respected and looked after.'
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