Wednesday 11 November 2026
November 2025
On 11th November 2025, the Trust came together to mark Armistice Day with a two-minute silence at 11:00am. There was also a flag-raising ceremony on the Green from 10:50am, led by our Chaplaincy Team and a Remembrance service in the Chapel at the same time. Our Managing Director, Nick Johnson, said: "This is always a meaningful moment for us as a Trust - not only to pause and remember those who have served and sacrificed, but also to recognise our strong connection with the Armed Forces and veteran communities. Salisbury has deep military roots, and we’re proud to stand alongside our colleagues, patients, and partners who have served or continue to serve."
October 2025
SFT staff member Paul Russell has been presented with the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance Merit Coin. It is awarded to individuals or teams who have shown extraordinary commitment to removing disadvantage for the Armed Forces community. These coins are not just tokens; they are a heartfelt expression of gratitude and a tangible reminder of the appreciation that the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance holds for your commitment. Congratulations Paul!
June 2025
This week (23rd-27th June 2025) is Armed Forces Week, and to help celebrate, some of Staff Armed Forces Network members got into costume as 'Hero Bear' and 'Pilot Bear' mascots, visiting wards to raise the profile of the support offered to our Armed Forces community.
Also, to celebrate Reservists Day yesterday, the Network hosted a drop-in session in Springs for its members and Network Chairs to meet, and talk about the importance of the Armed Forces Network in its support of our staff.
Below are comments from session attendees:
"What a wonderful morning spent with truly inspiring people! The atmosphere was incredibly welcoming and supportive, making it easy to connect with others."
"The amount of information shared was highly valuable. It's clear this network will play a vital role in building stronger support systems for members of the Armed Forces community, and I am proud to be a part of that Network."
On Friday 27th June, at 12:00, we met on The Green to raise the Armed Forces Day flag, ahead of Armed Forces Day on Saturday 28th June. The event was attended by Armed Forces Network members, 'Hero Bear' and 'Pilot Bear', and a patient invited to raise the flag for the Trust.
Click here to learn about the dedicated services and initiatives to support the Armed Forces community.
Op COURAGE: Read about the NHS Op COURAGE national campaign.
Op RESTORE: Discover more about the veterans physical health and wellbeing service for those who have served in the UK Armed Forces.
Op COMMUNITY: View the map of Community Support locations throughout the United Kingdom.
You may also find this series of podcasts helpful, co-developed by clinicians and our patient and public voice group.
August 2024
In this episode, Transformation Portfolio & Programme Lead Neil Lewis recounts how his work in the Army helped him deal with PTSD from a horrific childhood traffic accident. Also, Former Education staff member Tanya Neal, who has served as a RAF Police Officer, admits that when she was young, she always wanted to be a Nurse, but realised she would be ‘terrible’ at it.
August 2022
Have a listen to the 'Military Family' episode of our 'Cake' podcast series below. Host Jayne Sheppard revealed what life is like being married to a soldier. The discussion with Army child David Murtagh and veteran Simon Hunter covered issues such as growing up in the Army community, the impact of operational deployment on the family, and the fear and reality of loss.
July 2022
Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust was awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award in July 2022, having previously held a Silver Award since 2014. The scheme encourages employers to support defence and the Armed Forces community and inspire others to do the same by aligning our values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
Representing the highest badge of honour, the ERS Gold Award identifies organisations that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.
Gold award holders:
SFT staff members collecting the Armed Forces Covenant
ERS Gold Award on behalf of Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust.
Our staff at Salisbury District Hospital have long been well regarded for the quality of care and treatment they provide for our patients and for their innovation, commitment and professionalism. This has been recognised in a wide range of achievements and it is reflected in our award of NHS Foundation Trust status. This is afforded to hospitals that provide the highest standards of care.
