
Air Vice-Marshal Simon Edwards, Director of People, RAF


We live and operate in close-knit communities where we rely on each other for support. The RAF family is rich in diversity and culture, and it’s important that we value and respect everyone.
To make sure everyone feels safe and included, we provide a range of services and support, including staff networks which play a crucial role in promoting change, role modelling, mentoring circles and coaching. We also provide specific support to those that would benefit:

Women
The RAF has the highest percentage of women compared to the other British Armed Forces and we are working hard to make sure that it is a place where everyone is treated equally.
LGBTQ+
It’s been over 20 years since the ban of LGBTQ people in the forces was lifted. Since that time members of the LGBTQ community have entered the RAF in countless roles and we ensure everyone is supported with LGBTQ networks on the majority of bases.
Disability
We have an established disability network and we offer a range of provisions dependent on individual needs.
Religion and Belief
As long as your religious beliefs are legal and don’t disrespect or compromise the safety of the team, you are free to practise any religion. RAF Commissioned and Civil Service Chaplains are authorised leaders from the major world religions and provide pastoral and spiritual care for all personnel, and their dependents, irrespective of religious belief or status. Network support is available for both religious and non-denominational beliefs.
Ethnicity
The UK is an eclectic mix of ethnicities and cultures, and we want the RAF to reflect the society which it serves. We understand that people’s history is important and we continue to review and adjust our uniform rules so that individuals can more easily express their cultural heritage within the forces.
We are constantly striving towards creating an environment that is welcoming and productive. Our open culture encourages serving members to speak out about what we are doing right and where we can improve. These conversations are an opportunity for the RAF to grow, change and become more inclusive.
Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.
We offer training throughout your career with the RAF and this varies between roles. To find out more visit our Training and Development pages.
The likelihood of being deployed abroad depends on the career path you take. You can talk to our team to see what choice is right for you.
As long as your religious beliefs are legal and align with the RAF’s mission and don’t disrespect or compromise the safety of the team, you are free to practice any religion. RAF Commissioned Chaplains are authorised leaders from the major world religions and provide pastoral and spiritual care for all personnel and their dependants irrespective of religious belief or status.