PRIME Minister David Cameron has presented gold awards to ten UK companies as part of the MOD’s newly-launched Employer Recognition Scheme at an Armed Forces Covenant reception at 10 Downing Street.
The award recognises companies that have signed the Corporate Covenant and are acting as advocates and employers for defence professionals and Reservists.
Working in partnership with employers
Minister of State (MOD) Anna Soubry, also present at the reception, said: “Growing our Reserve Forces is not something that we can do alone. This is about working in partnership with employers – giving them the support they need and showing them that in turn, their Reservists can give a lot back too.
“I’m very proud to see so many employers being recognised for the backing and encouragement they are showing their Reservists, and hope to see many more follow suit.”
Gold award winner
Theale-based company SCS, part of Cohort plc, was one of the companies to receive this prestigious award. It was among the first to sign up to the Armed Forces Corporate Covenant in November 2013.
Managing director Bill Bird said: “I am delighted that SCS has received a gold-level award under the MOD’s Employer Recognition Scheme.
“SCS takes pride in its ability to support the Armed Forces community, especially the Reservist initiatives, and many current and former Servicemen and women are now a huge asset to our business.”
Celebrating success
The Prime Minister spoke with Reservists and employees who attended the Downing Street reception.
This year, these included:
• The final local authority in Great Britain signing up to the Community Covenant; all local authorities are now committed to supporting the Armed Forces family in their communities
• The 200th company to sign up to the Corporate Covenant committing to support the Armed Forces through their business, including Reservists working for them
• The first companies to receive gold employer recognition awards to celebrate the support they give to the Armed Forces community, specifically including Reservists working in their organisation.
The Prime Minister also announced the names of eight projects that will share nearly £20 million of funding to improve accommodation for Armed Forces veterans.
Find out more about the Corporate Covenant at www.aff.org.uk/armedforcescovenant/corporatecovenant.htm
Employer of the Year
Are you the spouse or partner of a Regular or Reserve soldier? Is your employer supportive of your military lifestyle?
If so, there is still time for them to nominate themselves for AFF’s Employer of the Year Award. Visit www.aff.org.uk/employer/index.htm for more details.