Published Thursday, 4th September 2025

Reigate & Banstead Borough Council has been awarded the Silver Award by the Ministry of Defence as part of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS).

The Mayor following the presentation of the Award

The Silver Award was presented to Reigate & Banstead by the Ministry of Defence at an event in Portsmouth on 3 September.

The award is a recognition of the Council’s strong and sustained commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community, including reservists, veterans, service leavers, and military families.

Delighted

Receiving the award at a colourful ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Defence in Portsmouth, Cllr James King, Executive Member for Corporate Policy and Resources said: “I am delighted both as a local councillor and proud member of the Army Reserves. I’ve seen first-hand the difference it makes when an employer understands the unique challenges and strengths that come with Armed Forces life. Reigate & Banstead is that kind of employer, and I’m proud to be part of a local council that truly lives up to the Covenant’s promise as an employer”.

Also in attendance at the awards ceremony was Cllr James Baker, Deputy Leader, Executive Member for Community Development, and Armed Forces Lead at Reigate & Banstead. Cllr Baker said: “As an armed forces veteran myself, I'm delighted we have achieved silver in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. This award is a testament to our commitment to supporting serving personnel, veterans, and military families across our borough”.

Reigate & Banstead has won Silver for support to Armed Forces

A certificate was given at a special ceremony by the Ministry of Defence

Real practical support 

The Silver Award is a step forward from the Council’s previous Bronze Award. It reflects the real, practical support we’ve embedded across the council – championed by teams from various services, and made possible through our shared values of service, respect, and community.

From flexible HR policies to inclusive recruitment and advocacy, the Silver Award is a clear marker of the steps that we have taken as a local authority to honour the Armed Forces Covenant and to ensure that our organisation is not only an equal opportunities employer but a forces-friendly one too.

Today (Thursday 4 September), the award was brought to the Town Hall and shown to the Mayor of the Borough of Reigate & Banstead in the presence of the mayor’s cadets.

Please join us in celebrating this milestone and recognising the incredible work of our colleagues and residents who have served. We are not stopping here - our eyes are already on the Gold Award.