On Tuesday 7 October 2025, the Master, Alderman Sir William Russell, signed the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation, ensuring that those who serve, or have served in the Armed Forces and their families are treated fairly. It recognises the unique obligations and sacrifices, made by the Armed Forces at home and overseas. A signed copy is here.
In line with many other Livery Companies and organisations the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers have adopted the Covenant to publicly demonstrate our support for the Armed Forces Community. In so doing we are making a statement to the Armed Forces that they are valued by society, and we are also encouraging other organisations to do the same, and to offer practical support where possible.
Reservists, Service leavers, Cadet Adult instructors and Cadets can bring unique skills to their civilian employment which are beneficial in a modern working environment. Such skills include not only nationally recognised business and technical qualifications but also transferable skills such as leadership, discipline, problem-solving and teamwork.
Research has shown that having young people involved in the many Cadet forces builds key life skills like confidence, resilience, and teamwork, boosts employability, and can improve mental and physical well-being, especially for disadvantaged young people.
The Haberdashers’ Company is extremely proud of its long-standing military affiliations with HMS St Albans, The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment, Number 17 Company Coldstream Guards, 7th Battalion The Rifles and IX (Bomber) Squadron RAF.
The Master was especially delighted to welcome the Lady Mayoress, Florence King, herself an Army Reservist, to witness the signing along with representatives of the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment, 7th Battalion The Rifles and IX (Bomber) Squadron RAF.
