East Riding of Yorkshire Council wins gold award for supporting the Armed Forces

East Riding of Yorkshire Council has been granted the Gold Award for the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. The scheme encourages and celebrates employers who support the Armed Forces community and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

Councillor Anne Handley, Leader of the Council said “We are incredibly proud to receive the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award. This honour reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community and recognising the positive impact they have on our workforce and local area.”

The council has won the highest level of award - gold - due to its work as an employer and as an advocate. 

As an employer, the Council has many policies to support active and former members of the Armed Forces. This includes 10 days paid leave, with additional unpaid leave, for Reservist & Cadet Force Volunteers to fulfil training obligations.

Council job vacancies are advertised on the Ministry of Defences’ career transition partnership website. There is training for council staff to promote an enhanced understanding and appreciation of the Armed Forces Community, and information about the Covenant is incorporated into induction for new employees.

The council has also supported the Armed Forces community through nominated staff who act as Armed Forces Champions and has a supportive Armed Forces staff network.

Alan Menzies, Chief Executive said “Achieving the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award is a significant milestone for us. Supporting members of the East Riding Armed Forces community, whether serving, veterans, or reservists and their families, and recognising the valuable skills and experiences they bring to the area, is incredibly important.”

The council also obtained the award due to its work with other partner organisations to improve the support available in the East Riding.

This includes encouraging other local employers to sign the Covenant and recognise the skills and experience that veterans and reservists can bring to an organisation.

The Council has helped advocate and raise awareness of support for the local Armed Forces community. This has been done through regular communication campaigns and the development of webpages to signpost those in need of help and guidance. It also works in partnership with a wide range of local organisations to support delivery of the East Riding Community Covenant Delivery Group Action Plan.

East Riding council has also set up a grants programme which provides funding for local projects by partner organisations, to support the Armed Forces community.

Councillor Liam Dealtry, Armed Forces Member Champion said “I am delighted that the Council has achieved this fantastic award. It’s a reflection of how much work continues to be undertaken to support local veterans, reservists, those still serving and their families, both by Council staff and our partner organisations. The award demonstrates our continued commitment to working together with our partners to prevent disadvantage and provide quality services for our local Armed Forces community.”

Photo - UK MOD Crown Copyright 2024