Reaffirming our commitment to our Armed Forces community

Published: 23 June 2026

Yesterday we re-signed the Armed Forces Covenant, reaffirming our commitment to supporting members of the Armed Forces community, including serving personnel, veterans and their families.

The signing took place at Torbay Hospital on Monday 22 June and brought together representatives from across local communities, including the Torbay Civic Mayor, the Chair of the Torbay Royal Marines Association, members of the Torquay Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club and Sea Cadets alongside their Commanding Officer.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a pledge that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, should be treated fairly and not disadvantaged when accessing public services. By re-signing, we are renewing its commitment to ensuring that pledge is reflected in how we deliver care and support our people.

We already support our Armed Forces community in a number of ways, including recognising military experience in recruitment, supporting reservists and ensuring that veterans receive appropriate and timely care.

Joe Teape, Chief Executive, said: “We are proud to re-sign the Armed Forces Covenant and to stand alongside our partners in supporting the Armed Forces community here in Torbay and South Devon.

“This is about doing the right thing in a practical way – making sure that people who serve, or who have served, feel supported when they need care, and recognised for the contribution they make. Today is also a reminder of the strength of that community locally and the partnerships that sit around it.”

Jess Piper, Chief People Officer, said: “As an organisation, we are committed to being a supportive and inclusive employer for members of the Armed Forces community.

“Re-signing the Covenant reflects the steps we are taking to recognise the skills and experience that veterans and reservists bring, to support colleagues who are balancing service with NHS careers, and to ensure that people feel able to thrive at work. It’s an important part of how we look after our people as well as the communities we serve.”

The event highlighted the strong partnerships across Torbay and South Devon supporting the Armed Forces community, bringing together civic leaders, veterans’ organisations and young people connected to the Armed Forces.