Armed Forces Week 2024

Camilla Howard, Chair of the Armed Forces Network – Compass Group UK & Ireland

As an RAF veteran and Army spouse myself, this is an important week for me and my family - colleagues, clients and customers too.

This week, we have been acknowledging the 1,000+ reservists, veterans, spouses, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and military families we have throughout our business.

Armed Forces Recognition Scheme

Compass was recently awarded Gold revalidation of the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme status. This reflects the work we do to support Armed Forces colleagues and it’s why we’re regularly approached by other businesses to share ideas and insights.

Our roundtable event

Earlier this week, we hosted a roundtable event. This was a chance to welcome external advocates, guests and charity partners as we discussed and shared our learnings together. We hosted it with a focus on spouses, but looking ahead we hope to create a network where we share best practice going forward.

Spouses on the move

When I left the RAF, I wanted a second career for myself – and Compass has given me the opportunity to do just that. As a spouse I know what it’s like to regularly ‘start again’ as my husband was posted far and wide - we moved 8 times in 15 years! That’s why an important part of the agenda at the roundtable was sharing our spouses’ policy and discussing how we can make it easier for Armed Forces spouses in our businesses - to take on new roles in different locations, if their family needs to relocate.

Recognising our Armed Forces community

I would like to thank those colleagues who have been sharing their stories, this week.

As part of Our Social Promise, we want to provide an environment and opportunities where everyone can thrive. Our work with the Armed Forces is a great example of this and I am pleased we continue to support both our people and the wider Armed Forces community.