Businesses play an important role in creating workplaces where people are treated fairly and able to thrive. The Armed Forces Covenant offers a straightforward way to demonstrate that commitment in practice.

What is the Armed Forces Covenant?

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation to those who serve or who have served, and their families, which says we will do all we can to ensure they are treated fairly and not disadvantaged in their day-to-day lives. The Armed Forces Covenant relies on the people, communities, and businesses of the UK to actively support it in order to make a difference.

By signing the Covenant, businesses publicly pledge to support those who serve or have served, and their families. This can include being open to employing veterans and reservists, offering flexibility for training commitments, and recognising the valuable skills military experience brings to the workplace.

Buckinghamshire Business First has been a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant since 2023. We recognise the value that those who have served bring to the workforce, and the importance of supporting their transition into civilian careers so their skills and experience can be fully realised.

There is a real opportunity for the Buckinghamshire business community to show collective support for the Armed Forces community. Signing the Armed Forces Covenant is a simple, free step that allows businesses of any size to demonstrate their support.

Armed Forces Day (27th June) - part of Armed Forces Week (22nd-28th June)

Armed Forces Day takes place on the last Saturday of June every year. It is a chance to show support for the people who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving personnel to Service families, veterans and cadets.

It also marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, beginning on 22nd June, which also includes Reserves Day (24th June).

Learn more about Armed Forces Week/Day and find events taking place near you.

If you have already signed the Armed Forces Covenant - we want to hear from you

For businesses that have already signed the Covenant, Armed Forces Week offers an opportunity to go further.

By promoting your support, sharing your story, and encouraging others to get involved, you can help build a visible, Buckinghamshire-wide campaign that shows that our business community stands firmly behind the Armed Forces.

We’re inviting you to share why the Covenant matters to your organisation, and what signing the Covenant means in practice. To get involved, email: [email protected]

Learn more about signing the Armed Forces Covenant

If you’re an employer in the county and haven’t yet signed the Armed Forces Covenant, it’s worth taking a look. It’s a clear commitment to fair treatment and understanding for those who serve and their families, and it can positively inform your employment practices.

To register your interest and learn more about signing the Armed Forces Covenant, email: [email protected]

Visit the Armed Forces Covenant website for further details on pledging your support.