Gloucestershire Armed Forces Covenant Business Network

Build valuable connections with Forces friendly businesses, share good practice and advance your Employer Recognition Scheme journey. Date: Wednesday 11 November 2026 Time: 12:30–15:15 Venue: The Patch, Gloucester, GL1 1AU About this event Join us for the launch of the Gloucestershire Armed Forces Covenant Business Network, sponsored by CDS Defence & Security (CDS DS) and SSAFA, in collaboration with Wessex RFCA, Eclectic Consulting and Gloucestershire County Council’s Armed Forces Covenant Champion. The network provides a forum for local businesses and organisations to build relationships, share experience and explore opportunities to work together in support of the Armed Forces community. Whether your organisation has already signed the Armed Forces Covenant, is looking to progress through the Employer Recognition Scheme, or is reapplying and wants to understand the updated essential and desirable criteria, this meeting offers practical guidance and an opportunity to connect with other Armed Forces friendly organisations across Gloucestershire. Programme 12:30–13:15: Networking and finger buffet 13:15–14:15: Guest speakers and discussion Hear practical advice and best practice from: • Wessex Reserve Forces & Cadets Association: An introduction to the Employer Recognition Scheme, including the updated criteria required to progress through the Bronze, Silver and Gold tiers. • SSAFA: How SSAFA can help your organisation support employees from the Armed Forces community. • CDS Defence & Security: As an Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award winner, CDS DS will share best practice on supporting the Armed Forces community and explain how the organisation benefits from its commitment to the Covenant. 14:15–15:15: Further networking, tea and coffee Save the date and join us to help shape the network. Follow our LinkedIn page for updates.