Lawyers retain gold award for Defence Employer Recognition Scheme

HCR Law has once again retained the Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), awarded by the UK Ministry of Defence.

The Defence ERS acknowledges employers who actively support the defence sector and set an example for other UK organisations.

The scheme offers three levels of awards – Bronze, Silver, and Gold – recognising employers that pledge, demonstrate, and advocate for the defence and armed forces community, while aligning their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

HCR Law is one of just 15 law firms to hold the Gold Award, which has been retained since 2019.

Other organisations across the UK include BT Group, EY, Marks & Spencer and Standard Chartered UK.

To achieve the Gold Award, organisations must meet criteria across 11 categories.

These include signing the Armed Forces Covenant, proactively showcasing their forces-friendly credentials, and serving as an exemplar within their industry sector.

Once a nomination has been submitted and validated, Gold Awards are reviewed by a national selection board, chaired by a senior military officer.

Rebecca Kirk (pictured), partner and head of defence and security said: “I am thrilled that HCR Law has once again been awarded the gold standard.

“This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to working with and for the armed forces community.

“At HCR Law, we actively welcome service leavers and others from this valued community and encourage others to do the same.

“As the wife of a serving soldier, I understand firsthand the challenges members of the armed forces face.

“More importantly, I understand that the skills and qualities they bring are invaluable to employers and the benefits to business in supporting our armed forces are numerous.

“We are proud to play our continuing part in championing this message.”

The firm’s work within the defence sector, now well-established across the UK, includes supporting former military personnel who run their own businesses supplying goods and services both nationally and internationally. 

In addition, the firm acts as a mentor to SMEs in the defence and security sector, regarding the covenant and the opportunity it provides for businesses.