We’re Maritime UK Award Champions!
23 July 2025
Carnival UK has been honoured by the Ministry of Defence with a prestigious Silver Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, celebrating its outstanding support for the Armed Forces community.
The accolade recognises Carnival UK’s proactive and tangible efforts, including flexible policies for Reservists to train and deploy, and fair, inclusive recruitment and selection practices. These initiatives reflect the company’s deep-rooted commitment to those who serve.
Central to this success is Carnival UK’s employee-led Military, Veterans & Partners (MVP) Community – a network dedicated to supporting colleagues with Armed Forces connections. The MVP Community not only champions Carnival UK as an employer of choice for Veterans, but also advises on employee engagement and inclusivity, helping to drive meaningful change across the organisation.
Matt Hall, Carnival UK’s Head of IT Compliance, who is also the lead for the MVP Community, said:
“We have a thriving group of around forty members, supporting not just those who have served or are currently serving, but their partners too. It’s a true honour to receive this recognition from the MoD, and a testament to the collaborative efforts of the MVP Committee and colleagues across the People and Partnership teams.”
Matt was joined by Chief People Officer, Jo Phillips, to attend the official awards event at the Second Sea Lord’s residence, where they were formally presented with the award by Nigel Atkinson, Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire. They also gained insight on how Reservists are supporting the nation and the support role their employers play.
Carnival UK is the only cruise operator to receive this distinction — a reflection not only of its commitment to ex-Forces colleagues, but also to the millions of Veterans who sail with P&O Cruises and Cunard.
