Andrew Davies, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer Instructor and Head Chef, ESS
In honour of National Cadets Week (5-11 October 2026), Compass Group UK & Ireland has introduced a Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAV) Policy.
Colleagues who are Cadet Force Adult Volunteers are entitled to five days of paid leave each calendar year to undertake approved Cadet Force duties, including annual camps, training activities and authorised cadet events. This is in addition to annual leave.
Along with reinforcing Compass’ long-standing commitment to the Armed Forces community, this new policy recognises the valuable contribution made by Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, who volunteer their time to support and inspire the next generation.
As a proud holder of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award, Compass is dedicated to supporting the Armed Forces community including veterans, reservists, military spouses, service families and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers - through practical workplace policies and inclusive employment practices.
This follows successful initiatives including Compass’ Reservist Policy and Spouses Policy - both of which were designed to provide practical support for colleagues connected to the Armed Forces community.
With over 1000 reservists, veterans, spouses, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and military families employed throughout the business, Compass continues to lead in supporting the military community with innovative, meaningful activities, guided by its Armed Forces Committee.
Andrew Davies, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer Instructor and Head Chef within an ESS site, said: “As a Cadet Force Adult Volunteer instructor, I am really pleased to see Compass introduce this policy. It recognises the time, commitment and pride that goes into supporting young people through the cadet movement, while also giving colleagues practical support to balance their volunteering with their work. For me, this policy shows that Compass truly values the skills, dedication and positive impact that Cadet Force Adult Volunteers bring - not only to Cadets, but also back into the workplace.”
Angela Lewis, Co-Chair, Compass Armed Forces Network and Strategic Relationship and Contract Governance Solution Lead, ESS, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to introduce this new Cadet Force Adult Volunteers Policy, our third dedicated policy supporting our Armed Forces community. Cadet Force Adult Volunteers play a vital role in developing young people and helping them build confidence, leadership and resilience. By providing up to five additional days of paid leave, we are giving our colleagues the opportunity to continue making a difference in their communities while demonstrating our commitment as a forces-friendly employer.”