Oldham mayor presents Armed Forces Silver Award to VPS UK
Date published: 31 July 2025
The award was presented to VPS by the Worshipful the Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Eddie Moores, and the Mayoress of Oldham, joined by Major Eddie Hardaker of the 75 Engineer Squadron, British Army
Oldham-based VPS UK, Europe’s leading temporary security provider, has been awarded the Silver Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), recognising its ongoing support and commitment to the UK Armed Forces community.
The award was presented to the UK and Ireland business by the Worshipful the Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Eddie Moores, and the Mayoress of Oldham, joined by Major Eddie Hardaker of the 75 Engineer Squadron, British Army.
Veterans from across the business stood proudly alongside the VPS HR team Dave Butcher, Head of Digital Learning, and Deborah Cookson, Head of People and Culture.
As part of its wider People Strategy, VPS UK has aligned its policies to become a Forces-Friendly employer, ensuring proactive support for veterans, reservists, and currently serving personnel transitioning to civilian careers.
The company ensures fair recruiting practices are applied with opportunities highlighted to Career Transition Partnerships for those with military experience, reflecting a culture of inclusivity.
“We are immensely proud to receive the Silver Award,” said Forces Liaison David Butcher.
“Our veterans bring valuable skills to our organisation, and VPS committed to supporting the Armed Forces Community wherever we can.”
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award highlights employers who go beyond the Armed Forces Covenant, demonstrating advocacy and tailored support for defence personnel and their families,
if you are a business interested in signing the Armed Forces Covenant, please reach out by emailing: dave.butcher@vpsgroup.com
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