At Hounds for Heroes, our Hounds are specially trained assistance dogs, and our Heroes are physically disabled or injured personnel of HM Armed Forces and the Emergency Services whose lives are transformed through partnership with one of our dogs.

Founded by Royal Navy veteran Allen Parton, the national charity was inspired by his own life-changing experience with an assistance dog. His mission was simple, to give others who have served our nation the same opportunity to regain independence, confidence and companionship.

We can fully fund each dog throughout its working life, ensuring that our support doesn’t become a financial burden. From our base near Petersfield, Hampshire, our small, dedicated team train each dog for up to two years before carefully matching them with the right beneficiary.

Our work is supported by a passionate network of volunteers and trustees who help raise awareness, ensure good governance, and continue Endal’s legacy, honouring those serving or who have served, helping them live life to the fullest.

Hounds for Heroes Awarded Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Bronze Award

Hounds for Heroes is proud to announce that we have been awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Bronze Award for 2025 — recognising our ongoing commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community.

The Bronze Award is a significant achievement, reflecting our dedication to honouring and assisting those who serve or have served, as well as their families. It acknowledges our work in creating a supportive environment for veterans, reservists, and military families, and our commitment to upholding the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant.

At Hounds for Heroes, our mission is to provide specially trained assistance dogs to injured or disabled service personnel and veterans, helping them to regain independence, confidence, and companionship. Receiving the ERS Bronze Award highlights how deeply our values align with the Armed Forces community we serve every day.

“We are honoured to receive the Bronze Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces family, through our assistance dog partnerships.

We’re proud to stand alongside other employers who actively champion the Armed Forces Covenant and are dedicated to ensuring that those who have served our country receive the support, respect, and opportunities they deserve. Our thanks to SERFCA for helping us through the process”.

Learn more about the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme: Defence Employer Recognition Scheme - GOV.UK.

We are a Registered Charity and operate only through the generosity of the public. Our accounts are lodged annually after audit with the Charity Commission and along with the Trustees’ Annual Report are available for all to read.