Milton Keynes City Council and Milton Keynes University Hospital (MKUH) are encouraging more businesses to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant, as both organisations continue to lead the way as Gold Award holders.
The city council first signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2012, renewing it in 2022 following the city’s new status. The city council remains proud to support serving personnel, veterans, and their families, ensuring they’re treated fairly in all areas of life. It also supports Milton Keynes’ service personnel community in many ways, including through a guaranteed interview scheme for veterans. The city council is proud of colleagues who serve as reservists and adult cadet force volunteers, recognising the valuable skills and commitment they bring to the organisation and the wider community.
MKUH has also been recognised with the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for its strong support for the armed forces community. This includes helping veteran patients, supporting staff who are reservists or military spouses, and working closely with veteran services so people can access the care they need. The hospital is also an accredited Armed Forces Veteran Aware Trust, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring that all members of the Armed Forces community receive the right support without disadvantage.
Signing the Armed Forces Covenant is beneficial for businesses as it helps them attract skilled, dedicated employees who bring leadership, resilience and a strong work ethic gained through military experience. It also strengthens links with the local community, shows real commitment to social responsibility, and ensures that veterans, reservists and their families receive the understanding and support they need from employers.
Both organisations hope their leadership will inspire more Milton Keynes businesses to make the pledge and show their support for the armed forces community.
Signing the Armed Forces Covenant is a voluntary pledge businesses and organisations make to support people who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, as well as their families. It isn’t complicated, and it doesn’t require major changes, it’s about making a fair and supportive commitment. Joining the Covenant opens the door to the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, where committed businesses can earn Bronze, Silver or even Gold status, helping them stand out as supportive, socially responsible employers.
“We’re proud to champion the Armed Forces Covenant and we encourage local businesses to join us. Signing the Covenant is a simple but powerful way to support those who have served our country, and it brings real benefits to employers too. By making this commitment, businesses help ensure that no one in the armed forces community is left at a disadvantage.”
“Signing the Armed Forces Covenant is about more than just a certificate. We bring our commitment to life by identifying staff and patients with an Armed Forces link, offering staff the opportunity to connect through our Armed Forces Staff Network, and ensuring patients receive supported referrals to the services and support that can help them. I am proud to work for an organisation that values my service in the Army Reserve.”