COMMUNITY TRUST RETAINS GOLD AWARD STATUS FOR ARMED FORCES SUPPORT

Nottingham Forest Community Trust (NFCT) has proudly been re-validated with the Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme, recognising the Trust’s continued commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. The Gold Award is the highest badge of honour for organisations that demonstrate outstanding support for those who serve, veterans, Reservists and Cadet Volunteers. NFCT is among a select group of organisations across the East Midlands to have achieved re-validation for 2026, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to Defence-friendly policies and practices. Through initiatives such as Forest Forces, the Community Trust ensures that local members of the Armed Forces community are supported by providing a range of events and gatherings across the year. The Trust joins a respected cohort of organisations recognised this year, including Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, all of whom play a vital role in championing the Armed Forces community and encouraging others to follow suit. Fred Hopkins, Head of Engagement at East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, said: “The Gold Award is not easy to achieve. It requires employers to make serious commitments to ensuring that their Defence Community are championed and supported. “To have their awards revalidated shows real commitment from these businesses, which is needed now more than ever, and I thank them for their efforts – it does not go unnoticed. “In return, these employers will be able to attract members of the Defence community who come with advantageous soft and technical skills, from leadership and teamwork to cyber and catering, helping to give their workforces a boost.” Calum Osborne. Chief Executive Officer of Nottingham Forest Community Trust added: “We are incredibly proud to have our Gold Award re-validated having first been recognised year-on-year since 2020. Supporting the Armed Forces community is something we are deeply committed to as an organisation. “We recognise the value that serving personnel and veterans bring, not only to our workforce but to the communities we serve. This recognition reflects the work we have done, and will continue to do, to ensure they are fully supported at Nottingham Forest Community Trust.”