Shropshire Council proud to receive Armed Forces Covenant reaccreditation award
Armed Forces Covenant champions and senior leaders at Shropshire Council are delighted to have received the official award celebrating the council’s reaccreditation as a gold standard employer.
Shropshire Council is the only organisation in the West Midlands to have the award revalidated this year, and is one of only 36 Gold Award revalidations made nationally.
Representing the highest badge of honour, Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards are awarded to those that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.
Ian Nellins, Shropshire Council’s Deputy Leader and Armed Forces Covenant champion, said:-
“As one of Shropshire’s largest employers, we have a duty to support regular and reserve units as well as the veterans who are trying to find their way in civilian life.
“Shropshire has a large Armed Forces community, including serving members (regulars and reserves), veterans and their families.
“The revalidation of the Gold Award is thoroughly deserved and testament to all of the fantastic work being done. We will continue to work hard to ensure that we lead the way and inspire others to support those who have selflessly served our country.”
Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award reaccreditation. (l-to-r): Ian Nellins, Kirstie Hurst-Knight and Andy Begley.
Kirstie Hurst-Knight, deputy Armed Forces Covenant scheme champion, added:-
“I am immensely proud of Shropshire Council’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, and of our small team and the volunteers who commit so much time to the Covenant and the Armed Forces community across our county.”
Andy Begley, Shropshire Council’s chief executive, said:-
“I am incredibly proud of what we’re doing as an organisation to champion the Employer Recognition Scheme, and the revalidation of the Gold Award is testament to our efforts and commitment to supporting the military and veteran communities and their families.
“We are dedicated to continuing to build our support for the Armed Forces, which in turn makes a positive and lasting impact on the lives of veterans, personnel and forces’ families.”
To win an award organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for reservists, and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, reserves, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, as well as spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.
West Midlands Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (WM RFCA) announced in July that the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award 2017 was to be revalidated.
