Yorkshire security specialist, Gough & Kelly, has been awarded the 2025 Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence.

The Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) seeks to recognise employers who go above and beyond in supporting veterans, reservists and active serving defence staff, and their families, in the workplace
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The Gold Award is the highest badge of honour for those who uphold the Armed Forces Covenant.

Gough & Kelly has had a long affiliation with the armed services and was previously bestowed the ERS Silver Award in 2022. The firm currently employs seven current and ex-servicepeople.

Previously, the Leeds-Headquartered company supported the Victoria Cross Trust with their restorations of Victoria Cross recipient’s graves that had fallen into ruin. Gough & Kelly also bought their veteran staff a Victoria Cross poppy each to wear in support of the charity.

Richard Cuff, Assistant Director at Gough & Kelly, says “We are delighted to receive the gold award from the MOD employer recognition scheme. We know that our veteran and serving staff provide invaluable insight and experience in civilian security situations as well as transferable skills that benefit the entire team.

“Our policies have been written to make sure they treat ex-servicemen and their families fairly and respectfully. We actively encourage staff to become reservists or cadet volunteers and offer additional assistance to employees that do so. We also allow servicemen to have short notice leave and extra holidays for their armed forces commitments.

“It is wonderful to support these amazing staff, and to receive this honour of recognition from the MOD.”