Fife Sports and Leisure Trust is proud to announce it has been awarded the prestigious Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), the highest honour given to organisations that demonstrate outstanding support for the Armed Forces community. 

This milestone follows the organisation’s Silver Award in 2024 and Bronze Award in 2023, marking a remarkable three-year journey of continuous progress and deepening commitment to veterans, reservists, cadet volunteers, and military families. 

Emma Walker, Chief Executive Officer of Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, said: “Achieving the Gold Award is a significant moment for us. It highlights our deep-rooted commitment to equality, inclusion, and community support. We’re incredibly proud to stand alongside other Forces-friendly employers and will continue to champion opportunities for those connected to the Armed Forces across Fife.” 

Lana Turnbull, Head of People at Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, added: “We are absolutely delighted to receive the Gold Award. It’s a reflection of our people-first approach and the real steps we’ve taken to ensure that veterans, reservists, and military families feel welcomed, supported, and valued. This recognition is a credit to the dedication of our teams and our partners who have helped us become a Forces-friendly employer.” 

The Gold Award recognises employers who go above and beyond in supporting defence personnel. To achieve this standard, organisations must meet a range of criteria, including offering at least 10 days of paid leave for reservists, embedding supportive HR policies, actively participating in career transition programmes, and championing defence-friendly values across their networks. 

This achievement not only reflects the organisation’s internal culture of inclusivity and support, but also its wider commitment to the communities it serves. Through targeted employment practices, collaborative partnerships, and ongoing engagement with Armed Forces initiatives, Fife Sports and Leisure Trust continues to strengthen its role as a socially responsible and inclusive employer. 

To learn more about awards, recognition, and Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s commitment to continuous improvement, visit: www.fifeleisure.org.uk/about/about/awards-recognition 

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme recognises employers who uphold the values of the Armed Forces Covenant. Learn more: www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-employer-recognition-scheme