South Western Railway (SWR) has been awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award, the Ministry of Defence’s highest accolade for organisations that provide exceptional support to the Armed Forces community.
The award, achieved just two years after earning Silver, means SWR joins Network Rail among a select group of employers recognised for their commitment to veterans, reservists, military families and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers.
Gold Award holders like SWR and Network Rail demonstrate inclusive workplace policies, active advocacy for defence and opportunities that help veterans and service families thrive.
The recognition reflects SWR’s dedication to creating a workplace where members of the Armed Forces community are valued, supported and able to build successful civilian careers.
SWR has championed the Armed Forces community by promoting the Armed Forces Covenant to suppliers and employers, representing its interests through industry and cross-sector Armed Forces working groups, attending military careers fairs and hosting cadet insight events.
As a natural career move for Armed Forces people, SWR has also engaged with the Air Training Corps and the Combined Cadet Force to raise awareness of track and train opportunities and apprenticeships, providing CV and careers advice as well as mock interviews for service leavers and veterans.
In 2025, SWR introduced SERVED – a colleague network to support colleagues integrating into civilian life from military service and to attract new talent to the railway from the Armed Forces.
Sharon Johnston, people and transformation director for South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex, said:
“Our railway and the Armed Forces share a longstanding and deep bond. From Salisbury Plain to Aldershot to Portsmouth, our network is rooted in service history and the communities shaped by it.
“For many in the Armed Forces community, the railway is a natural career move. Colleagues with service backgrounds, including those in our SERVED Network, bring invaluable skills and experience to our business and the wider industry.
“This Gold Award reflects our dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for service personnel and veterans, as proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant.”
Also in 2025, SWR and Network Rail Wessex celebrated the 200th anniversary of the railway in partnership with the Armed Forces, marking the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo with the Household Cavalry at London Waterloo and rededicating the Royal Artilleryman train with the Royal Artillery in Salisbury.
Achieving the Gold Award marks a significant milestone for SWR and reinforces SWR and Network Rail Wessex’s position as a leading employer for those who have served, continue to serve or support the Armed Forces community.
Image credit: SWR
