This article forms part of our "Spotlights: Impacts in action" series looking at the impact our responsible business framework is having on clients, colleagues, communities and governance.
Article last updated 3 April 2026.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation to ensure that those who serve, those who have served, and their families are treated fairly. We are proud to uphold the Armed Forces Covenant, recognising the service of regulars, reservists, veterans and their families.
Originally signed in November 2022 by our Chief People Officer, this commitment means we recruit veterans through the Career Transition Partnership, offer reservists additional paid leave for training and mobilisation, provide flexibility for service spouses, and back Armed Forces charities through matched giving and volunteering. We also support national moments, from Armed Forces Day to Armistice.
Reflecting our long‑standing commitment, Rathbones were expeditiously awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold status in 2025, underscoring an armed‑forces‑friendly culture built on practical support, opportunity, and fairness. As we continue to embed these principles across our business, we focus on removing disadvantage, offering special consideration where it is due, and helping colleagues with service backgrounds to thrive.
In December the Lead of our Armed Forces Network, and other colleagues supported a few stages of the Walking with Wounded, Long Way Home event pulling a pulk from the Cenotaph in London to Newcastle.
