After securing the top honour in supporting veterans and the Armed Forces community back in July, colleagues from Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) joined a prestigious ceremony to formally collect the coveted Gold Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (DERS) award from the Ministry of Defence, celebrating the Trust’s outstanding commitment in assisting veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, and the families of those currently serving.

Elizabeth Parker, Head of Resourcing and Attraction, and Julia Shaw, Recruitment Advisor, were there to accept the award at The Army Flying Museum in Middle Wallop, Hampshire, where HM Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Mr. Nigel Atkinson, presented the Gold awards to 16 exemplary organisations from across the South East.

The evening featured a range of memorable moments, from musical entertainment by the RAF Regiment to a dramatic Apache helicopter flypast and a drill display by The Tonbridge School Combined Cadet Force, all topped off with refreshments and VIP guests.

MTW’s DERS Lead Julia Shaw said, “We are immensely proud to receive the Gold DERS award this year, reflecting our commitment to supporting our Armed Forces community staff and driving positive change. We remain dedicated to shaping a positive future for both our employees and patients, advancing projects and initiatives that strengthen our position as a Forces-friendly organisation.”