Wiltshire-based rural marketing consultancy, Escape the Village, has proudly been awarded the prestigious Silver Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) for its outstanding commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. Others in the South West that have been awarded this include large local and county councils and NHS Trusts, so to achieve this as a small rural business is a massive achievement.
Announced this week by Wessex RFCA as part of the 2025 Silver ERS award recipients across the South West, this national accolade recognises organisations that go above and beyond in their support for veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, and military families.
To achieve Silver status, Escape the Village demonstrated a sustained and active commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, including:
- Offering additional paid leave for Reservists to undertake annual training
- Supporting mobilisation and volunteering within Cadet Forces
- Implementing Armed Forces-friendly recruitment practices
- Promoting support for service personnel and their families throughout the organisation
- Maintaining strong working relationships with Defence stakeholders
Founder Liz Graney, a veteran of the Women’s Royal Army Corps (WRAC) and married to a Royal Marine veteran, brings personal experience and passion into the values of her business.
“We are deeply proud to support those who serve,” said Liz. “As both a veteran and spouse of a veteran, I understand the unique challenges faced by the Armed Forces community, especially in rural areas where support can be limited. This award reflects our commitment to standing by those who have served, are still serving, or are part of military families.”
As an Armed Forces Covenant signatory, Escape the Village has built its support through a wide range of initiatives including flexible working for reservists, pro bono marketing for military charities, work opportunities for Armed Forces families, and the sponsorship of remembrance and resilience activities across Wiltshire and the South West.
The Silver Award will be officially presented to Liz Graney later this year by the Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, the King’s representative in the county.
Emily Kadoch, Defence Relationship Manager at Wessex RFCA, commented:
“To see the evidence organisations provide each year of the amazing work they are doing to make a real difference to Defence is a real privilege. A big congratulations to you all once again!”
This latest recognition marks a proud milestone for Escape the Village – a small business making a big impact. With sights already set on achieving the Gold Award, the team will continue to expand their Defence engagement and commitment to supporting those who serve, have served, and their families.
