NHS Lanarkshire has formally signed the Armed Forces Covenant, reinforcing its pledge to support members of the Armed Forces Community, veterans and their families.
The signing ceremony took place this week at NHS Lanarkshire headquarters, with incoming Veterans’ Champion Claire Ritchie putting pen to paper on behalf of the health board. The move reaffirms NHS Lanarkshire’s ongoing commitment as a Gold Employer under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
The Covenant was co-signed by Wing Commander Derek Read RAF, supported by Duncan Evans, Defence Relationship Manager with the Ministry of Defence, and representatives from the Lowland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (RFCA).
Also in attendance were NHS Lanarkshire’s Ally Boyle, Non-Executive Director; Craig Cunningham, outgoing Veterans Champion and Chief Executive Louise Long.
Speaking at the event, Louise said: “NHS Lanarkshire is proud to support those who serve, those who have served, and their families. Signing the Covenant is not a symbolic gesture – it’s a tangible commitment to ensuring our policies, practices and workplace culture continue to reflect our values of respect, fairness, and opportunity for all.”
Duncan Evans welcomed the renewed commitment: “This Covenant represents a clear promise from NHS Lanarkshire to ensure that those who serve or have served are treated with the dignity and support they deserve. We’re pleased to see this commitment continued at such a high level.”
The Covenant recognises the contribution made by the Armed Forces Community and aims to ensure they are not disadvantaged in accessing services such as healthcare, education, and employment. NHS Lanarkshire’s support includes active recruitment of veterans, flexibility for reservists and ongoing training to raise awareness of veterans’ needs across its services.
The signing was made possible with support from the Lowland RFCA, which works to strengthen the relationship between Defence and civic organisations across Scotland.
A proud moment for Claire as hands over the veterans’ baton
As NHS Lanarkshire reaffirmed its commitment to the Armed Forces Community the occasion marked both the retirement of Craig Cunningham as Veterans’ Champion and the appointment of Claire Ritchie as his successor.
The occasion brought together colleagues and partners to celebrate Craig’s outstanding contribution in embedding a culture of inclusion and respect for veterans, while looking ahead with confidence as Claire takes forward the momentum he has built.
Claire, who is also NHS Lanarkshire’s Interim Director of Interface, added: “This signing is a proud moment – but more importantly, it’s a promise. A promise that we will continue to champion the needs of veterans and serving personnel, not only through policies, but through actions.
“I’m honoured to take on the role of Veterans’ Champion and to build on the strong legacy Craig leaves behind. I look forward to working with colleagues and partners to ensure Lanarkshire remains a place where veterans feel respected, supported, and valued.”
Craig Cunningham, outgoing Veterans’ Champion and also Head of Commissioning and Performance for South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “Employing members of the Armed Forces community, whether veterans or reservists, has and continues to have a truly positive and beneficial impact on our efforts to provide exemplary care across all our services.
“In relation to the provision of health services, NHS Lanarkshire and the University HSCPs offer a dedicated pathway – Veterans First Point (V1P) – for veterans and their families living in Lanarkshire who require psychological support or wider social and welfare assistance.
“We also work with the Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS), who provide practical and emotional support for veterans navigating healthcare pathways, helping connect them with other vital services such as home supports or respite care.
“As I prepare to retire, I’m proud to have helped embed a culture of inclusion and respect for the Armed Forces community across NHS Lanarkshire. Signing the Covenant is a fitting way to sign off — and to hand the baton to Claire Ritchie, who I know will take forward this work with energy, compassion and real purpose.”
Ally Boyle MBE, Board Vice Chair of NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Craig has made an outstanding contribution as Veterans’ Champion, ensuring the voices and needs of the Armed Forces community are heard and acted upon. His work has left a legacy of genuine inclusion, practical support, and deep respect for those who have served. I have every confidence that Claire will carry this momentum forward, building on the strong foundations Craig has laid to ensure veterans and their families continue to receive the recognition, support, and opportunities they deserve.”
Notes to Editors
Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS)
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme encourages employers to support Defence and inspire others to do the same. The scheme includes Bronze, Silver and Gold awards for employers who demonstrate support for the Armed Forces community and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
NHS Lanarkshire currently holds Gold status, recognising its proactive support for veterans, reservists, military spouses and cadet force adult volunteers in its workforce.
More information: www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-employer-recognition-scheme
Lowland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (Lowland RFCA)
The Lowland RFCA is an independent, community-based organisation that promotes and supports the Armed Forces in the Lowlands of Scotland. It plays a vital role in connecting Defence with employers, public bodies, and local communities — including the delivery and coordination of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme across the region.
Lowland RFCA supports engagement, recruitment, and employer relations on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.
More information: www.lowlandrfca.org.uk
