Armed Forces Week 2023 at The University of Salford was a resounding success, filled with meaningful events and activities that celebrated the service and sacrifice of the armed forces community. The university actively participated in a range of ceremonies and initiatives, demonstrating its unwavering support for the military.
Image: Armed Forces Flag Raising ceremony
The week commenced with the university’s attendance at the Armed Forces Week event held by Salford City Council. The highlight of the event was the solemn Armed Forces Flag Raising ceremony, led by the Lord Lieutenants office and Salford’s Ceremonial Mayor’s office, on the front steps of Swinton Town Hall. The university representatives joined the event, paying their respects to the armed forces and standing in solidarity with the community.
On campus, The University of Salford set the tone for Armed Forces Week celebrations by proudly flying the Armed Forces Day flag. The flag symbolised the university’s support and appreciation for the armed forces, serving as a visual reminder of the week’s significance.
Hosted by Dr. Sam Grogan, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Student Experience the ceremony, which welcomed serving personnel, officer cadets, veterans, and reservists. The event commenced with a warm reception, offering tea and coffee to guests upon arrival. The flag raising itself took place outside the building, led by Colonel Rainey, Commanding Officer of the North West Officer Training Regiment, and Cllr Gina Reynolds, Mayor of Salford, further amplifying the sense of pride and respect in the air.
Another highlight was the visit to the North of England Robotics Centre (NERIC), an all-electric building at the forefront of robotics and automation. NERIC showcased The University of Salford’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and highlighted the integration of Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) in transforming the approach to organization, operations, and combat in the Army. The university’s military guests had the unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies and advancements that shape the future of robotics and automation, gaining invaluable insights into this rapidly evolving field.
Image: Andy Reid MBE and Dr. Maria Stukoff, Morson Maker Space Director
A special visit to the Morson Maker Space was also a standout event of Armed Forces Week. Esteemed guest and veteran Andy Reid MBE, a triple-amputee who serves as an ambassador of Morson Forces, shared his experiences and insights during the visit. Led by Dr. Maria Stukoff, Maker Space Director of the School of Science, Engineering & Environment, and Victoria Coomber, Armed Forces Engagement Lead, the visit focused on supporting veterans in their journey back into employment and exploring ways to engage younger veterans with the university. The Morson Maker Space, equipped with state-of-the-art tools and resources, proved to be an inspiring hub for innovation and collaboration.
In recognition of its unwavering support for defence personnel, The University of Salford proudly announced that it had been granted the prestigious Ministry of Defence ‘Employer Recognition Scheme’ Silver Award. This accolade further underscores the university’s commitment to ensuring fair treatment for service personnel and the armed forces community during recruitment and selection processes. It also affirms the university’s positive policies regarding defence personnel issues among its workforce. Victoria Coomber, Armed Forces Engagement Lead, expressed great pride in receiving the Silver Employer Recognition Scheme Award, reaffirming the university’s dedication to being a forces-friendly employer.
Rounding off the busy Armed Forces Week was the collaborative Creative Forces event, organised in partnership with NHS England and the College for Military Veterans and Emergency Services. This event aimed to inspire and educate young people aged 11-16 from schools across Greater Manchester about the diverse career opportunities in the health and social care fields. Over 60 children participated in engaging workshops, gaining hands-on experiences and insights into various aspects of healthcare. The University of Salford’s state-of-the-art simulation suite, CPR and resuscitation demonstrations, and realistic emergency simulations were among the highlights of the event, leaving a lasting impact on the young participants.
Armed Forces Week 2023 at The University of Salford demonstrated the university’s steadfast commitment to supporting the armed forces community. Through ceremonies, visits, and collaborative initiatives, the university honoured and celebrated the service of veterans, reservists, and their families. The University of Salford remains dedicated to providing a supportive environment for defence personnel and creating opportunities for their personal and professional growth.
For more information about The University of Salford and its commitment to the armed forces community, please contact Victoria Coomber at v.k.coomber@salford.ac.uk .