DAF Trucks is one of only 162 UK employers to be honoured for going ‘above and beyond’ for the Armed Forces community in the UK, having been recognised with the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Now into its 12th year, the ERS Gold Award is the highest standard that organisations can achieve for demonstrating ‘outstanding support for the Armed Forces community’, in the eyes of the MoD. The award is a step up from DAF's silver certification, which it was awarded by the ERS last year.

Examples of how DAF Trucks has helped members of the Armed Forces include embedding policies that are forces-friendly, advocating for defence and creating inclusive workplaces in which veterans, Reservists and military families can thrive. Achieving ERS Gold also demonstrates the vital role that DAF Trucks plays in strengthening the UK’s resilience, skills and national security.

To achieve Gold Award status, employers must provide at least 10 days' additional paid leave for Reservists each year, as well as implementing dedicated HR considerations for service families, veterans and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers. Organisations must also actively promote the Armed Forces Covenant, encourage others to support defence and demonstrate long-term, proactive commitment that exceeds the scheme's baseline requirements.

Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey MBE MP said: "For a veteran starting a new chapter, or a Reservist balancing two demanding roles, having an employer in your corner makes an enormous difference.

“These 162 organisations have gone out of their way to make veterans, Reservists and military families feel genuinely welcome and supported,” he added. “I'm incredibly proud to recognise them today, and I hope their example inspires many more."

Ian Grant, Customer Services Director at DAF Trucks and Armed Forces project lead, said: “The ERS Gold Award recognises the hard work and dedication that DAF Trucks and Leyland Trucks puts into supporting veterans. We strive to create an inclusive working environment and those efforts have led to more than 150 Armed Forces leavers expressing an interest in joining the DAF Dealer Network.”