Newark and Sherwood District Council formally presented with Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for support to Armed Forces Community

Veterans have formally presented a council with an award recognising the authority's support for the Armed Forces Community.

The Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award certificate was presented to Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Chairman, Councillor Sue Saddington and Vice Chairman Councillor Lydia Hurst at a full council meeting on February 7.

Representing the highest badge of honour, the Gold Awards are awarded to organisations that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.

Deputy leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council and Armed Forces champion, Councillor Keith Girling, said: “The Armed Forces play a vital role in the district and we are forever grateful for the service they provide in protecting our country.

"I am delighted that we have been awarded gold status in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme which acknowledges those employers who support defence personnel, including reservists, veterans, wounded injured and sick families and cadets.

"This really is a testament to our commitment to these wonderful service men and women.”

On November 15, 2021, Chief Executive John Robinson re-signed the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of the District Council, reinstating its promise to encourage awareness, understanding and integration between the Armed Forces and the wider community.

John Robinson said: “We firmly remain committed to doing all we can to remember, and honour, the sacrifices made to secure and protect our freedom and we will continue to do what we can to support those in the Armed Forces both in our district and in our workforce, enabling them to have the care and backing when they need it most.

"I am thrilled that we have been accredited with such an honour.”

Newark and Sherwood District Council is one of fifty seven organisations in the East Midlands who currently hold this prestigious award.

To win the award, organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for Reservists and Cadet Leaders to carry out their annual training 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.

Organisations 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.

Bruce Spencer, the Ministry of Defence’s Regional Employer Engagement Director for the East Midlands, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that so many local companies have been recognised with this Gold Award.

"It has been a difficult couple of years for businesses, and despite that, these organisations have gone above and beyond to ensure our Armed Forces community is supported.

"They should be very proud of this significant achievement.”