AIREDALE Hospital's armed forces advocate is up for a national award.

Martin Flint-Johnson is a finalist in the Advocate of the Year category of the British Ex-Forces in Business Awards.

The shortlisting is recognition of his work supporting ex-forces personnel and veterans at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

Martin took up the advocate post in November, 2022.

His role involves identifying and speaking with any serving or former members of the forces who come into the Steeton hospital – including patients, visitors and staff, and their immediate families – to see if they require any additional help.

In his first year alone, Martin – an ex-serviceman himself, who served with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers – supported over 200 people.

Earlier this year, he launched 'Brew Up' events, which anyone with military connections can attend.

Kathryn Hooper, business manager at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, says: "It is great to see the work Martin does being recognised at a national level and I am very proud of him.

"His commitment to supporting the armed forces community is clear to see, and his ability to draw on his own experiences as an army veteran makes the delivery of his role authentic and informed.

"Whilst it is always nice to be nominated for an award, I know that supporting individuals and their families from the armed forces community is what gives Martin the most satisfaction."

Ben Rossi, founder of the British Ex-Forces in Business Awards, pays tribute to all the nominees and finalists.

He adds: "The incredible achievements documented through the 900-plus nominations we received for this year’s awards are simply staggering. The fact they have been enabled by skills and values gained in the British armed forces should leave employers in no doubt of the value that veterans offer.

"We are proud of the role these awards play in showcasing and championing the veteran talent pool.

"The Ex-Forces in Business Awards evidence very clearly that supporting the transition of servicemen and women into meaningful second careers is not just the right thing to do, or a tick in a box – it’s a tried and tested route to acquiring exceptional talent that will add enormous value to your business. Congratulations go to all this year’s finalists, and 'thank you' for serving as such tremendous role models for service leavers."

Winners will be announced at a celebratory event in London on June 27.