2026 Covenant Conference: Another Standout Success

June 30, 2026

The packed programme included this breakout session titled *Lessons on Covenant Delivery from Local Authorities*.

The 2026 Covenant Conference took place on 23 and 24 June at Portsmouth Guildhall, bringing together partners from across the UK to focus on the next phase of Armed Forces Covenant delivery.

Held during Armed Forces Week in Portsmouth, home of the Royal Navy, the event explored the theme of “Covenant expansion, strengthening delivery across government and nationwide”.

With the Armed Forces Bill now introduced, the conference was a timely opportunity to discuss the planned expansion of the Covenant Legal Duty and what it will mean for organisations supporting the Armed Forces community.

This was the biggest Covenant Conference to date, with around 325 delegates joining in person and 400 attending virtually. Showcasing the dedication across organisations to supporting the Armed Forces community, the programme brought together voices from Defence, government, local authorities, charities, education, industry, families’ organisations and the wider Armed Forces community.

We were pleased to welcome Calvin Bailey MP, the new Minister for Veterans and People, who delivered the keynote address and joined delegates for a chaired Q&A.

Calvin Bailey MP, Minister for Veterans and People, delivering the keynote address.

Delegates also heard from Polly Miller-Perkins CBE, the new Armed Forces Commissioner, on her ambitions for the role.

Across the two days, there were a whole host of fantastic sessions, with highlights including:

The Covenant Duty expansion
VALOUR
Covenant delivery across the UK
Data, research and insight
Personal perspectives
The experiences of Armed Forces families

We extend our thanks to Portsmouth City Council and to our sponsors, Capita and Airbus, for their support.

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended, contributed, asked questions and shared their insight. Your energy and expertise are helping to strengthen Covenant delivery across the UK.

We look forward to continuing this work with partners as the expanded Legal Duty is implemented and are already looking forward to seeing you again at conference 2027!