Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals recognised for support to armed forces community

Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) has received three nominations at this year’s Doncaster Armed Forces Covenant Awards, underscoring its ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces community. The Trust is in the running for the ‘Business of the Year’, ‘Community Engagement’ and ‘Unsung Hero’ awards, with winners set to be revealed on Friday 30 October 2026.
This recognition reflects DBTH’s efforts to better understand and address the healthcare and workplace needs of veterans, serving personnel, reservists and their families. Over recent years, the Trust has worked closely with local partners and community groups to identify and overcome challenges faced by the Armed Forces community when accessing NHS services.
A significant focus has been placed on incorporating the lived experiences of Armed Forces members into service improvements. This approach has led to the creation of resources such as the Hospital Guide for the Armed Forces Community and the Veterans Passport. Developed in collaboration with veterans and Armed Forces organisations, these tools aim to clarify available support and hospital procedures for those with military backgrounds.
The Hospital Guide offers clear information on what veterans and serving personnel can expect during their care at DBTH, while the Veterans Passport allows individuals to communicate their service history and specific support needs effectively.
Denise Smith, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Responsible Officer for the Armed Forces Covenant Oversight Group at DBTH, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been shortlisted in three categories at the Doncaster Armed Forces Covenant Awards. While the nominations recognise the contributions of individuals, they also reflect the commitment across DBTH to making a positive difference for our Armed Forces community.”
She added, “Through our Armed Forces Covenant Oversight Group, we are working to better understand the experiences and needs of veterans, serving personnel, reservists and their families, and to ensure their voices are reflected in how we deliver healthcare and support our people.”
These resources and further information about support for the Armed Forces community are available on the DBTH website under ‘support for veterans’. The awards ceremony on 30 October will announce the winners across all categories.