LEADING THE WAY: The Dorset Armed Forces Community Business Support Networking Group is making a difference in the business world. Pictured at its latest meeting are, from left, Ellis Jones Solicitors managing partner Nigel Smith, BCP Council economic development officer Amy Walton, Ellis Jones Solicitors senior associate solicitor Diane Pearce and Mick Betteridge from Veteran Entrepreneurs
Businesses and guests celebrated the success of a new initiative to support entrepreneurs within the armed forces community in Dorset.
The Dorset Armed Forces Community Business Support Networking Group event was held at the West Hants Club in Bournemouth with sponsorship from regional law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council’s economic development team and Veteran Entrepreneurs launched the initiative earlier this year to foster collaboration and business growth among the armed forces community.
It is aimed at those who have started their own businesses, including active service members, veterans, reserve forces, cadets and their families.
The group provides networking and business opportunities and support to help members to raise their profile and grow, as well as create jobs and strengthen local entrepreneurial ecosystems and support businesses at all stages of their development to start, sustain, grow and innovate.
Ellis Jones Solicitors, which is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and recently received a gold award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, sponsored the event – the last of six held this year.
Nigel Smith, managing partner, said: “The armed forces community makes a valuable contribution to society and the economy.
“It is a privilege to stand alongside the armed forces and the many people and businesses connected with them, and help them receive the recognition and support they so richly deserve.”
BCP Council launched the Dorset Armed Forces Community Business Support Networking Group during Armed Forces Celebration Week in June.
Veteran and business coach Mick Betteridge of Veteran Entrepreneurs, who spent 24 years in the forces, said: “We are honoured to bring the armed forces community together to support entrepreneurial growth and professional development.
“The backing from our partners, including BCP Council’s economic development team and Ellis Jones Solicitors, ensures we continue to make a lasting impact.”
Ellis Jones – with 178 staff including 24 partners in seven offices – has a number of staff with regular, reservist and cadet force connections.
It is a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant, a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.
In 2025 the group’s events will be held on the last Tuesday of every month.
To register or learn more about the Armed Forces Community Business Support Networking Group, contact Mick Betteridge at coach@veteranentrepreneurs.org or Amy Walton, skills lead, at amy.walton2@bcpcouncil.gov.uk.
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