Member Article

Business owner with family military ties urges firms to back armed forces scheme

A NORTH EAST business with strong military links has urged others to back a scheme which supports the UK’s armed forces.

Darlington-based PR firm Harvey & Hugo has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, and is now on a pathway towards the bronze, silver and gold awards via the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

Owner Charlotte Nichols said the accolade was “deeply personal” given her family’s service to the country.

Her grandfather was a paratrooper while husband, Chris, served as a Royal Marine. As such, she was “proud, privileged and moved” to offer her firm’s support.

“The British armed forces hold a special place in my heart, so this worthwhile cause is something we couldn’t not get behind,” said Charlotte, who launched the PR firm in 2009.

“Our armed forces continuously sacrifice so much for us and given the current global climate – particularly around Russia and Ukraine – nobody should take those sacrifices for granted.

“That’s why the whole Harvey & Hugo team felt it was vital to do what we could to show both our gratitude and support, and to thank our armed forces for all they’ve done for us.

The Ministry of Defence scheme is aimed at companies that “pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community”.

Now Charlotte has urged other business owners to lend their support.

“With global tensions at their highest point in 60 years, we have never felt so at risk. However, our armed forces do an incredible job so our families can sleep safely at night,” she added.

“That’s why I’m urging the business community to pull together to show our support.

“The best way to do that is to join the thousands of businesses that have already signed the armed forces covenant and let those fighting for our freedom know how valued and respected they are.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Harvey and Hugo .