August 20, 2025
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Highland RFCA held an Armed Forces Covenant and Defence Employer Recognition Scheme insight evening in Stornoway on 15 July.
Defence Relationship Manager Ray Watt organised the event in order to give Western Isles employers a greater understanding of the benefits of partnering with Defence.
Guests were welcomed to The Caladh Inn by Councillor Duncan Macinnes, Depute Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council), who gave the opening address (pictured above).
Ray Watt delivers his presentation.
Ray then provided the audience with some background on Highland RFCA and its roles and responsibilities, before delivering a presentation on the benefits to business of both the Armed Forces Covenant and Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS).
Captain Pete Marshall.
Ray was followed on stage by Captain Pete Marshall of 7th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland who gave a talk on Reserve Service and employers.
Rounding off the speakers was Gordon Jamieson, Chief Executive of NHS Western Isles, who gave the employer perspective on delivering support for the Armed Forces and the benefits that can bring to organisations.
Gordon Jamieson.
A Q&A session followed before guests had the chance to enjoy networking and a complimentary buffet.
Employers represented included Armed Forces Covenant signatories the Hebridean Housing Partnership, NHS Western Isles, and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council). NHS Western Isles and the Council are also both holders of ERS Silver Awards.
The event ran from 6 to 8pm and follows a similar insight evening held in Inverness late last year.
