Our Commitment to the Armed Forces Community
We are proud to announce that NEC SWS has officially signed the Armed Forces Covenant in November 2025, reaffirming our dedication to supporting those who serve, and have served, in the Armed Forces, as well as their families.
Our Commitment to the Armed Forces Community
We are proud to announce that NEC SWS has officially signed the Armed Forces Covenant in November 2025, reaffirming our dedication to supporting those who serve, and have served, in the Armed Forces, as well as their families.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation to ensure that those who protect us are treated fairly and with respect in the workplace and wider society. By signing, we are taking active steps to recognise the unique skills and experiences veterans and reservists bring to our organisation.
Patrick Smith, Chief HR Officer said:
“Veterans and reservists have incredible stories to share and skills to show, and we’re excited that a large number of colleagues with such background are part of our business. We value the resilience, leadership, and adaptability that Armed Forces colleagues bring, and we want to make sure they feel supported and empowered here.”
Why This Matters to Our Business
This commitment not only reflects our values but also strengthens our ability to build trusted partnerships and deliver exceptional results for our customers. Veterans and reservists bring qualities that are critical for success in today’s business environment: leadership, resilience, and teamwork. These qualities don’t just strengthen our teams, they enrich our culture, spark innovation, and enable us to build high-performing groups that drive growth for our business and foster a stronger, more connected community.
Christian Digance, Solutions Architect in Housing and former Royal Marines Band member, shared:
“Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging and often isolating, so seeing NEC actively recognise and value the skills and experience of veterans through initiatives like signing the Armed Forces Covenant means a lot. Working here, I feel supported, simple actions like creating the Armed Forces Community have already connected me with former colleagues, and it’s great to share experiences while knowing NEC truly backs the Armed Forces community.’’
Paul Howard, Pre Sales Consultant, Public Safety and former British Army Royal Corps of Signals member, said:
‘’Helping to establish the Armed Forces community within NEC has been a proud moment for me. It’s more than just a network – it’s a commitment to supporting veterans, reservists, and their families. Seeing NEC sign the Armed Forces Covenant reinforces that dedication and shows that the skills and experiences we bring are truly valued.’’
Our Pledge
By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, NEC SWS is committed to turning words into action. We will continue to develop policies and initiatives that support veterans, reservists, and their families, including:
- Support for Reservists – Allowing unpaid time off and providing assistance for mobilisations and deployments.
- Employment Opportunities – Actively supporting Veterans, Service Leavers, and Service Spouses and Partners in finding meaningful roles within NEC SWS.
- Flexibility and Wellbeing – Offering flexibility for Service Spouses and Partners, alongside wellbeing support.
- An Armed Forces Internal Community – Creating a space for colleagues to connect, share experiences, and drive awareness.
- Volunteering Days – Through our Community Matters Programme, enabling employees to volunteer for Armed Forces charities.
- Support for National Events – Honouring key occasions such as Remembrance Day.
- Awareness Initiatives – Empowering our Armed Forces Community members to lead programs that educate and inspire across the business.
