Holly Tree Lodge Care Home, in Barnsley, is celebrating after achieving the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award in recognition of its support for veterans, reservists and the wider Armed Forces community.
The Silver Award, presented by the Ministry of Defence, recognises employers who go beyond their Armed Forces Covenant commitments and actively support the Armed Forces community through recruitment, workplace policies and employee support initiatives.
The achievement follows Holly Tree Lodge’s recent success in becoming a Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) accredited care home and reflects the team’s continued commitment to supporting veterans both as residents and as employees.
To achieve the award, the home worked with Trust Care to develop a Veterans Employment Policy and actively promote veteran-friendly employment opportunities. The team has also used social media to share positive stories about veterans working in care and raise awareness of the skills and experience former service personnel can bring to the sector.
Steve Wilson, Managing Director of Trust Care, said: ” “Veterans bring a unique range of skills, experience and leadership qualities to the workplace, and it’s important that employers recognise the value they can offer. We are proud that the work undertaken at Holly Tree Lodge has been recognised through this award and reflects the team’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.”
The award builds on Trust Care’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, a national pledge that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, should be treated fairly and not face disadvantage because of their service.
Kasia Szatowska, Home Manager at Holly Tree Lodge, said: “Following our Veteran Friendly Framework accreditation, we wanted to build on that success and look at how we could further support veterans, not only in our care, but also in the workplace.
“We’re proud that the work undertaken by the team has been recognised through this award. It demonstrates our commitment to creating an inclusive environment for veterans and gives reassurance to residents, families and prospective employees that we are dedicated to supporting the Armed Forces community.”
Holly Tree Lodge currently supports three veteran residents and has appointed a dedicated Veterans’ Champion, a former Royal Dragoon Guards soldier, who helps shape the home’s veteran programme.
Hayley, Sam and Anna from the home attended the 2026 Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Awards Ceremony and Dinner, hosted by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenants of Yorkshire and Brigadier Lisa Brooks, Commander of 19th Light Brigade.
