Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has pledged its continued support for people who have served in the Armed Forces, with a promise to make sure they are treated fairly and equally in their day-to-day lives.  
 
Chief Executive Ann Millington signed the Armed Forces Covenant today (11 May 2023), in front of military personnel and KFRS representatives, including colleagues who are also veterans.

The agreement was co-signed by Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Castro of the Royal Engineers, who was joined by Major Ben McGauley and Regimental Sergeant Major, Andrew Hurren. 
 
KFRS is a long-standing supporter of the voluntary agreement and already has 31 designated armed forces champions within its workforce, who are specially trained to understand the culture of the military community, and the impact it can have on individuals and their families.  
 
By using their knowledge, the champions can develop tailored services for veterans who live and work across Kent and Medway, including employees within KFRS, while helping them to seek extra support for them and their families from other organisations.  
 
In addition to being an armed forces-friendly employer, KFRS is involved with a number of groups, initiatives and events, including military partnership boards and veteran hubs in Canterbury and Thanet, where ex-armed forces residents can socialise together and connect through shared experiences.  

On Friday 5 May, firefighters from Canterbury fire station attended Canterbury City Council’s Spring Lane veteran’s hub for a pre-coronation lunch, supported by the armed forces and LGBT+ networks (pictured in the gallery of images below).  
 
Front-facing staff are also trained to recognise military characteristics when attending someone’s home and can make a referral for support from relevant charities.  
 
Speaking after today’s signing, Ann said: “At KFRS, we’re extremely proud of our close links with the armed forces communities here in Kent and Medway, and it’s an important relationship we will continue to cherish and champion. 

“Signing the Armed Forces Covenant is a national expression of recognising people who have performed military duties and acknowledging the value of their contributions. We’re grateful for the sacrifices they have made, and to their families, who play an important part in supporting their loved ones. 
 
“We’re fortunate to have ex-military people and family members within KFRS, who bring a wide range of skills, knowledge. and expertise to our organisation.  
 
“We’re here to help everybody and we’re always looking at ways we can provide support and a tailored service to people who need it, including veterans and their families.”