More than 150 organisations have been recognised by the UK Government for their outstanding support towards the Armed Forces community.
Representing the highest badge of honour, the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards identifies businesses that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families. A total of 156 organisations have been recognised this year, the ninth year of the awards scheme. Of the winners, 44% are either micro-organisations or small and medium sized enterprises, while 33% are public organisations. This demonstrates both the growth in numbers and the depth of supportive employers. Councils, charities, blue light services, retail and insurance companies are among those that have been recognised.
Minister for Defence People Leo Docherty said:
"Regardless of size, location or sector, employing members of the Armed Forces community is good for businesses. These awards recognise the outstanding support for our Armed Forces from employers across the UK and I would like to thank and congratulate each and every one."
The Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards continues to grow in strength each year, with a current total of 643 holders. Organisations must reapply after five years in order to retain their Gold Award status.
To win an award from the Ministry of Defence, organisations must show that they provide 10 extra paid days leave for reservists and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, reserves, Cadet Force adult volunteers and spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.
They must also advocate the benefits of supporting those within the Armed Forces community, by encouraging others to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and engage in the Employer Recognition Scheme.
Among those recognised include Morgan Stanley, IBM, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Admiral Group and Groundwork.
A year ago Train4All were proud to announce that they had achieved Silver, and the business could not be prouder to have received notification they have been awarded the Gold Armed Forces Covenant. As a Private Training Provider specialising in the resettlement of our Armed Forces, Train4All are absolutely delighted to be recognised for the hard work they do to train and support anyone connected with the armed forces. There is even more opportunity now within Construction and Engineering and the business will continue to support those leaving, veterans and forces families with skills training. Train4All proudly work alongside local and national employers on some of the largest construction and engineering projects in the country to provide employment opportunities too.
Rachel Allen, Chief Operating Officer said:
"Both Jon and I would personally like to thank every member of our team for ensuring service personnel receive a smooth transition when leaving the military, we will continue to work hard to provide the very best outcomes, and will be delighted to accept the Gold Covenant Award in November. Thank you to the Wessex RFCA team for their continued support”