Boots & Beret Awards

Nottinghamshire Police have been recognised for its outstanding commitment to former Armed Forces Personnel, Reservists and those employed by Nottinghamshire Police who come from the wider Defence Community.

The force, which employs around 130 veterans and reservists, was named ‘Employer of the Year’ at the Nottinghamshire ‘Boots & Beret’ Awards 2024. The award recognises the force’s ongoing efforts to attract, retain, develop and support current and former members of the Armed Forces. Last year Nottinghamshire Police also won the ‘Community Together Award’ at the Nottinghamshire ‘Boots & Beret’ Awards 2023, and it is these achievements that continue to raise greater awareness for the wider Defence Community of Nottinghamshire.

Furthermore, Nottinghamshire Police was the pioneer of the UK’s first direct employment pathway scheme for those in their last year of their military resettlement period, and in turn who are considering a career in policing. It also operates an active Armed Forces Network providing support for veterans, reservists, cadet leaders and related armed forces family members.

In recognition of this work, the force has previously been recognised as a Gold Standard employer by the Ministry of Defence. It has now been recognised as the county’s best employer.

PCSO Steve Timperley, a former soldier of 22 loyal years military service, Founder & Chair of the Nottinghamshire Police Armed Forces Network, said:

“This award is the result of a lot of hard work, and I am really proud to be a part of it. People who have served in the Armed Forces come with a fantastic skillset that can be ideally suited to modern policing. However, we also recognise that some of our veterans do find things tough on the outside and can also need our support in different ways. We have made giant strides over the past couple of years to ensure that we are giving our best to all of these people - both as an employer and a public service.” 

PCSO Steve Timperley was joined by Armed Forces Network colleague and Vice-Chair of the network PC Luke Bettridge and Assistant Chief Constable Gary Hooks as the award was presented by Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Douglas Pulford.

Assistant Chief Constable Hooks added:

“I was delighted to be part of this ceremony and would like to congratulate all the people who made this award possible. We have come a long way in our support of the Armed Forces Community and are committed to continuing our ongoing initiatives in the future.”