Armed Forces Covenant
KFRS is proud to uphold the Covenant
Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) is proud to hold a Gold Defence Employer Recognition Scheme award.
We are committed to being an Armed Forces-friendly organisation and actively promote a supportive and inclusive work environment for military personnel, their families and veterans.
KFRS is dedicated to aligning our values with the Armed Forces Covenant and striving for the highest standards of support and recognition through the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS).
Chief Executive Ann Millington renewing KRFS' commitment to the national Armed Forces Covenant.
What is the Armed Forces Covenant?
The Armed Forces Covenant is 'a promise that together we acknowledge and understand that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy, and society they serve with their lives.
Its two principles are that, recognising the unique obligations of, and sacrifices made by, the Armed Forces:
- those who serve in the Armed Forces, whether Regular or Reserve, those who have served in the past, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services.
- special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given most such as the injured and the bereaved.'*
At October 2024, some 11,800 businesses and organisations have signed the Armed Forces Covenant.
Employer Recognition Scheme
What the Armed Forces Covenant means to Kent Fire and Rescue Service
Through the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme we dedicate and align our values with the Armed Forces Covenant (AFC). This means:
- we are committed to being an armed forces-friendly organisation and acting as an example for other organisations
- we actively promote a supportive and inclusive work environment for all military personnel, their families and veterans
- we provide exceptional fire and rescue services to the UK armed forces community
As members of the Employer Recognition Scheme Kent Fire and Rescue Service
- uphold the Covenant
- are open to employing reservists, veterans, cadet instructors and military spouses/partners
- ensure colleagues are aware of our positive policies towards issues those from the armed forces may face
- provide 10 days of additional unpaid/paid leave for reservists' training and support mobilisations
- support the Cadet movement
- strive to achieve and maintain the highest level of recognition in the ERS
- maintain a positive public image
We are an inclusive organisation that values equality and diversity.
Our Armed Forces Service Champions
As part of our commitment to the covenant we have embedded Armed Forces Service Champions throughout Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
Our champions undertake training for their role and help with matters ranging from housing, health and finances to friendship visits and mental health. They liaise with organisations such as The Royal British Legion, the RAFA, SSAFA and the RNRMC.
Further information
Staying 'Safe and Well'
Kent Fire and Rescue Service offer Home Fire Safety Visits to help make your home a safer space. These visits are free for those that have a long-term health condition, dementia, a young family, are an older person, or a smoker. To learn more take a look at our Home Fire Safety Visit page.
Working for KFRS
If you are interested in a career with Kent Fire and Rescue Service, please take a look at our 'Work with us' information. Here you'll find helpful information and videos about a variety of roles, ranging from firefighters to our support services.
Keep up to date with KFRS
To find out what's happening at KFRS take a look at our News and incidents section and our Events page where you'll find details of our latest Open days, courses and more