Celebrating 10 Years of Supporting the Armed Forces community

On Thursday 3 October 2024, Step into Health celebrated10 years of supporting the Armed Forces community into NHS careers. Held at the House of Lords, the event brought together over 100 guests, including programme alumni, NHS colleagues, and key stakeholders, to reflect on the journey so far and look ahead to the future.

A Decade of Dedication

Since it began in 2017, Step into Health has helped thousands of former Armed Forces personnel and their families transition into meaningful careers across the NHS. With 176 NHS organisations now pledged to the programme, it has become a powerful force for inclusion – breaking down recruitment barriers and recognising the unique skills, values, and leadership experience the Armed Forces community brings to healthcare.

This collective effort has not only diversified the NHS workforce but also enriched patient care and strengthened organisational culture.

Honouring Excellence: Step into Health Awards

The celebration featured the Step into Health Awards, recognising individuals and organisations who have gone above and beyond in their support for the Armed Forces community.

Outstanding Dedication Award

Winner: Steve Martin, United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust

Steve, a veteran and Step into Health alumnus, has been a driving force in supporting Service Leavers through their transition. As Strategic Partnerships Manager and Chair of ULHT’s Armed Forces Network, he leads initiatives such as insight days and placements, offering guidance and opportunities across NHS organisations.

“It can be daunting transitioning from the Armed Forces into another career. Through Step into Health, we aim to ease that journey by providing insight, support, and connection. The Armed Forces community brings fantastic skills and leadership experience that can be used to great effect within the NHS.”

Step into Health Champion Award

Winner: Gavin Jones, Kings Facilities Management

Gavin exemplifies what it means to be a Step into Health advocate. Having come through the programme himself, he now champions it across his organisation and beyond. As Armed Forces Champion, Gavin attends job fairs, coaches ex-forces applicants, and educates hiring managers on the value of military experience.

He also works with HR and procurement teams to promote the Armed Forces Covenant among suppliers and mentors external organisations like Barnet Council and British Military Fitness to develop their own Armed Forces support programmes.

Transition Support Award

Winner: United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust (UHLT)

ULHT has supported over 135 Service Leavers, offering early engagement, flexible support, and fully backed placements. Their Step into Health insight days – now expanded to system-wide events, provide comprehensive exposure to NHS careers in Lincolnshire.

The trust also supports veterans, reservists, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers through inclusive policies, a strong staff network, and year-round events that foster belonging and recognition.

Forces-Friendly Employer Award

Winner: Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust & Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Trust

In Summer 2023, Derbyshire merged two Armed Forces Staff Networks to form a united Armed Forces Community Trust Group, now with nearly 60 members, including veterans, reservists, and cadet leaders.

The group hosts monthly online tea and coffee meetings, regular in-person events, and inclusive celebrations such as Reserves Day and Armed Forces Week, attended by over 50 colleagues. The trust also provides dedicated spaces for staff to mark Armistice, reinforcing its commitment to respect, remembrance, and support.

Looking Ahead

The House of Lords ceremony was not just a celebration; it was a recommitment.

As Step into Health enters its second decade, the programme will continue to grow, evolve, and ensure that the Armed Forces community has access to purposeful, supported, and rewarding careers in the NHS.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed. Your dedication has built a programme that changes lives. Here’s to the next 10 years of impact, inclusion, and opportunity.