Wiltshire Police proud to receive Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award

The award was presented on October 13 at the Devizes Town Hall by His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Dame Sarah Troughton, at a Lord-Lieutenant's Awards ceremony.

The ERS Silver Award recognises employers that actively support members of the Armed Forces community, including reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers, and military spouses and partners.

The recognition reflects Wiltshire Police's ongoing commitment to supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families both within the organisation and across the communities it serves.

Veterans bring a wealth of valuable skills and experience to policing, including leadership, resilience, problem-solving and investigative expertise. Wiltshire Police is committed to ensuring those transitioning from military service are supported throughout their policing careers.

Paul Cooper, Senior Manager for Crime Scene Investigation in Wiltshire Police and a military veteran attended the event alongside Police Sergeant Jennie Howells, from Salisbury response, who served for 12 years with the Royal Engineers.

Paul Cooper said: "Receiving this award is something the Force should be incredibly proud of. Wiltshire is home to one of the largest military communities in the country, so it is important that we are recognised as an employer that understands and supports the Armed Forces community.

"I served for 23 years in the Army as a Royal Military Policeman, before becoming a police staff member of Wiltshire Police. The move into policing felt like a natural transition because so many of the skills developed during military service are directly transferable. Leadership, investigation, forensics, intelligence gathering, teamwork, commitment and a strong sense of public service all play a vital role in both careers.

"We also recognise that some veterans may join policing after experiencing challenging or traumatic situations during their service. That's why having the right support in place is so important. We want people to know they can continue to thrive and build successful careers with us."

Last year, Wiltshire Police launched its Armed Forces Staff Support Network to bring together serving personnel, veterans and those with family connections to the Armed Forces.

The network provides support, guidance and development opportunities while recognising the unique contribution the Armed Forces community makes to both Wiltshire Police and the wider United Kingdom.

In addition, officers and staff have access to Trauma Risk Management (TRiM), a peer-support programme designed to help individuals identify when they may benefit from further wellbeing support following a traumatic event.

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award is a national accolade for organisations that demonstrate exceptional support for the Armed Forces community and champion the values of the Armed Forces Covenant.