Police awarded for supporting armed forces communities

Dyfed-Powys Police has achieved the 2022 Silver Award for the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS).

The ERS award was presented at a ceremony held at the National Museum Wales, Cardiff as recognition for the organisation’s support towards the defence sector and for demonstrating advocacy for the armed forces community.

The award was accepted by Detective Superintendent Paul Jones, who is the lead for the Dyfed-Powys Police Armed Forces Veterans staff network.

Assistant Chief Constable Steve Cockwell, who also attended the ceremony said: “It is a great honour for our organisation to receive this prestigious award.

“We recognise the transferable skills that service leavers and veterans can bring to the police service, and we are tremendously proud and humbled for being acknowledged as a supportive employer for those who have served to protect our freedoms.

“This award also shines the light on our highly valued Armed Forces Veterans Network and the contribution of its members. The staff network champions police officers and staff who are veterans, reservists, and their families. Together with the Force they are determined to enhance partnership working within the armed forces community and support the delivery of the Armed Forces Covenant.”

The event saw 22 organisations from across Wales being awarded by the Ministry of Defence for the ERS scheme.

Presenting the awards were Brigadier Andrew Dawes CBE, Commander 160th (Welsh) Brigade, Wing Commander Martin Morris, AIR Regional Employer Engagement Officer (Wales), Commander Steve Drysdale OBE, Royal Navy and Maritime Operations Cell Head in Defence Equipment and Support.

Dyfed-Powys Police hopes to encourage other businesses to join the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). Find our more information of the scheme here.