Conference

A stronger healthcare workforce: integrating the talent of the Armed Forces

Join us for our online Armed Force Conference on 11 March to explore and showcase how you can support the Armed Forces community in healthcare.
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General information

Time
11 March 2025 09:00 - 16:15 GMT
Audience
Open to all

NHS Employers’ annual Armed Forces conference returns 11 March 2025, helping healthcare organisations support Reservists and members of the wider Armed Forces community  

You will hear how NHS trusts are working with Step into Health to support the Armed Forces community into a range of NHS roles. Plus, learn how healthcare organisations achieved the Employer Recognition scheme Bronze, Silver and Gold accreditation along with examples of how to publicly supporting members of the Armed Forces Community in your workforce. 

Take a look at the agenda and start planning your day now.

  • An introduction to the sixth annual NHS and Armed Forces conference. 

10:20-10:30am - Break

  • Come along to find out more about Armed Forces Reservists. We will look at the commitments for Reservists and their employers. Understand what employing and supporting Reservists can do for your organisation. Go through the journey to being a forces friendly employer and understanding how the Armed Forces Covenant and the Employer Recognition Scheme awards fit into the journey.

  • This session will provide a comprehensive look at the journey of leaving the military, with a strong emphasis on navigating the transition to civilian life and securing employment. It will address the unique challenges faced by Service Leavers and offer practical strategies for supporting a successful transition.

11:10-11:20am - Break

  • In this session you will hear from Reservists about their skills and training as well as their experience of working in healthcare.

  • This session will delve into the unique challenges faced by military spouses and partners in securing employment within the NHS, as well as the significant benefits they bring to the healthcare workforce. It will provide insights into how healthcare organisations can better support and integrate this valuable talent pool. Hear from Forces Families Federation and a lived experience colleague who will share her journey as a spouse.

12:00-12:45 - Lunch

  • Details tbc

1:15-1:30pm - Break

  • Discover insights from employers who’ve embraced the journey to becoming Forces friendly. They’ll share practical advice, key tips, and lessons learned, including how they started, the initiatives that work well, and the benefits of employing Reservists. Gain inspiration and guidance to enhance your own Forces friendly practices.

  • This session will focus on how the unique skills and qualifications acquired in the military can be effectively translated into careers within the NHS. It will provide insights into the value of military experience and offer practical strategies for recognising and translating these skills in the healthcare sector.

2:10-2:20pm - Break

  • Defence Relationship Management (DRM) will provide a clear guide to the ERS awards process, including how to achieve Bronze, Silver or Gold accreditation, and what’s required for re-accreditation. This session will help you understand the steps to becoming a recognised Forces friendly employer and maintaining your commitment to the Armed Forces community.

  • This session will explore the significant impact of engaging the Armed Forces community in enhancing the NHS workforce. It will highlight the unique skills and experiences that military personnel, veterans, and their families bring to healthcare roles and provide strategies for effective engagement and integration, with detail on how Step into Health can support.

2:50-3:00pm - Break

  • Join us for an insightful session on the strategic benefits of being a Forces friendly employer. Hear from our panel of experts as they share their perspectives and answer your questions. Discover how supporting Military Personnel and their families can enhance your organisation's workforce priorities, improve retention, boost morale and build a more inclusive workforce.

  • Closing remarks and reflections from the 2025 NHS Employers Armed Forces Conference.