NSFT awarded gold for its commitment to the armed forces
Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT) has been presented with a coveted gold award in recognition of the exceptional support it offers to the armed forces community.
The accolade is the highest badge of honour an employer can receive. It recognises and rewards organisations who advocate for servicemen and women, reservists, veterans and their families. It has been presented to the Trust through the Government's Defence Employer Recognition Scheme 2025.
NSFT was awarded the gold after demonstrating the significant steps it has taken to support the armed forces community. They include:
- Training 120 staff across the Trust as armed forces champions, who offer support to veteran colleagues and act as mentors.
- Developing an Armed Forces Network which meets quarterly to socialise and discuss further support which could be offered.
- I ntroducing a buddy system for ex-servicemen and women, carers and family members who are joining NSFT as new employees.
- Offering 10 extra paid days of annual leave for reservists and Cadet Force adult volunteers.
- Having a policy in place to support reservist mobilisation and a subsequent return to work.
- Hosting veteran charity events such as coffee mornings, walk and talks and Christmas celebrations.
- Providing information on services and support for veterans through a dedicated intranet page.
- Arranging for veterans to attend the Cenotaph on Remembrance Day.
NSFT also runs a highly successful Veterans Integrated Service, which offers enhanced, wraparound support to veterans, carers and families from staff who are specifically trained or veterans themselves. This includes wellbeing groups, women-only sessions and the Veteran's Stabilisation Programme, which is a 16-week course based on cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness.
The application for the gold award was led by Vicki Bailey, Veterans Clinical Nurse Specialist, who has also played a key role in developing NSFT's Veterans Integrated Service.
Caroline Donovan, Chief Executive at NSFT, said: Our armed forces are an incredibly valuable part of our community and we are committed to supporting individuals, families and carers, both during and after their service.
I am therefore delighted we have received this accolade in recognition of the steps we take and incredibly proud of our teams who have worked so hard to achieve the gold award.