John Mason International is proud to announce our formal commitment to the UK’s military community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. This public promise ensures fair treatment and support for serving personnel, veterans, and their families.

On Thursday April 23rd, we welcomed Lieutenant Commander Tom Pinfold RN and Jan Cox QVRM, WO1 (Retd), Defence Relationship Manager, to our Liverpool headquarters. Together with Executive Director Simon Hood, they signed the Covenant in a ceremony attended by staff and leadership. Guests were given a tour of our site and shown how we deliver our trusted international moving services, providing insight into our people-first, family-led approach.

During the visit, we were also awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Bronze Award by the Ministry of Defence in recognition of our support for veterans and reservists in the workplace.

A Wartime Legacy, A Modern-Day Commitment

John Mason International’s ties to the Armed Forces stretch back over a century. During the First World War, the company donated horses to the British Army to support the war effort. It was a gesture that reflected the values we still hold today: service, sacrifice, and standing together when it matters most.

During the Second World War, the company’s motorised vehicles were called into service. Our team played a vital role in evacuating schools, institutions, government departments, and private homes.

Each evening, our vehicles reported for duty at Civil Defence and Fire Posts during the bombing of Liverpool. We didn’t just move belongings. We moved lives with care, precision and a deep sense of duty. That same spirit continues to shape who we are today.

The Armed Forces Covenant is built on two principles: that those who serve should not face disadvantage compared to other citizens, and that special consideration should sometimes be given to those who have given the most.

At John Mason International, we are putting these principles into practice. We have introduced a new HR policy ensuring that all ex-military applicants automatically progress to the interview stage when applying for a role with us. It’s one way we are helping to remove the barriers veterans often face when moving into civilian careers, offering them a clear and fair path to new opportunities.

In addition, we are offering discounted international removal services to members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and their families, providing trusted, professional support at a crucial time in their lives.

Simon Hood, Executive Director, shared: “This isn’t just a formality. It’s a heartfelt promise. A way of acknowledging the enormous sacrifices made by Armed Forces personnel and their families. As a company with a proud history of public service, this felt like a natural step.”

Supporting Veterans Today

We’re also pleased to announce that Helping Homeless Veterans UK is one of our chosen charities for the year. This North-West-based organisation works tirelessly to rehouse veterans who’ve fallen on hard times, with 100% of donations going directly to those in need. You can find out more about their work and how to support them at hhvuk.org.

Helping veterans secure a stable home is a cause that aligns perfectly with what we do every day. Helping people start new chapters with peace of mind and dignity.

Encouraging Others to Take the Pledge

As we approach the 80th anniversary of VE Day, marking the end of WWII in Europe, now is the time to reflect, honour and take meaningful action. That’s why John Mason International is encouraging other organisations across Merseyside and beyond to sign the Covenant too.

Simon Hood added: “We’re calling on the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and other local bodies to follow suit. Whether you’re a business or a public sector organisation, you can make a real difference. Signing the Covenant is a powerful way to show your support.”

More Than a Signature

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone involved in making this happen. From the Ministry of Defence to our own dedicated team. Signing the Armed Forces Covenant is more than a statement. It’s a sincere commitment to stand alongside those who’ve served, not just in words, but through meaningful action.

At John Mason International, we don’t take trust lightly. Whether we’re helping a family start fresh overseas or backing causes that matter at home, we’re proud to do it with the same care, integrity and respect that’s defined our company for over 140 years.

Wherever we take your world, you’re at the centre of ours.

To learn more about the Armed Forces Covenant or to sign your business up, click here: https://www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk/show-your-support/sign-the-covenant