In this guest article, Councillor Steve Watkins, Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, outlines why supporting the Armed Forces Covenant matters to the city and its Armed Forces community.
“As a veteran myself, it is important to me that Stoke-on-Trent supports the Armed Forces community. That’s why I am proud that the city council has been part of the Armed Forces Covenant since 2012. This isn’t just a nice gesture – it is a national promise to ensure those who served or have served and their families are treated fairly. In my city, we take this promise very seriously.
It involves working together across the city to support the Armed Forces community in our area, helping people understand the unique challenges they face, and honouring the sacrifices they’ve made for our country. It’s about creating opportunities for connection, encouraging participation in local events, and making sure no one is left behind.
Aside from the covenant, I am proud that Stoke-on-Trent City Council achieved the Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme – a clear signal that the city council goes above and beyond to support reservists, veterans, cadet instructors, and their families in both our workplace and our wider community.
But this isn’t just something local authorities can do, and therefore I invite you to join us in this commitment. Any organisation – big or small, public or private – can sign the Covenant. Doing so reinforces your commitment to fairness, inclusion, and community responsibility. It demonstrates that you value the Armed Forces and want to ensure they are supported.
We have a chance to build a stronger, kinder, and more connected community for those who have given so much and signing the Covenant is a simple step with a powerful impact. I encourage all organisations in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire to join us. Together, we can make a real difference.”
Learn more about the Armed Forces Covenant and the local support available to armed forces communities here: About the Armed Forces Covenant | Armed Forces Covenant | Stoke-on-Trent
