RSPCA Hull & East Riding Awarded Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award
17 June 2025
RSPCA Hull & East Riding is proud to announce it has been awarded the Silver Award in the Ministry of Defense’s Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) – a step up from the Bronze Award achieved previously. This accolade is a testament to the charity’s strengthened commitment to supporting the armed forces community, including veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, and military families.
The Silver Award recognises employers who proactively demonstrate their support to the defense community. This includes employing and supporting members of the armed forces and advocating for other organisations to do the same.
Fred Owen, CEO of RSPCA Hull & East Riding, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to be recognised with the Silver Award. Supporting veterans and the wider armed forces community is embedded in our charity’s culture – from recruitment and volunteering to recognising the therapeutic power of animal care for those transitioning from military to civilian life. We’re proud to provide a welcoming, inclusive space where service leavers and their families can thrive.”
The Silver status acknowledges that RSPCA Hull & East Riding not only provides employment and volunteering opportunities to ex-service personnel, but also actively ensures internal HR policies support reservists and military families. This includes flexibility around deployment, training, and family commitments.
The charity’s commitment has already seen former and current service personnel contributing to its work across animal welfare, customer service, and community events. By understanding the unique value and transferable skills veterans bring – including discipline, leadership, and resilience – the charity is helping bridge the gap between service and civilian life.
The therapeutic benefits of working with animals – including reduced anxiety and improved well-being – also play a significant role in the support offered by RSPCA Hull & East Riding. Engaging in purposeful animal care and community activities gives many veterans a renewed sense of purpose and routine.
As a Silver Award holder, the charity will continue to champion armed forces-friendly practices and share its experience with others across the voluntary sector.
Join Our Mission - RSPCA Hull & East Riding encourages more members of the armed forces community to explore careers and volunteering opportunities within the charity. For more information, visit https://rspcahull.org.uk or contact us at volunteer.coordinator@rspcahull.org.uk.