Ten Welsh businesses have been presented with the prestigious Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award at a special ceremony in Cardiff.
The joint regional event held at HMS Cambria saw employers from Wales, West Midlands and Wessex regions recognised for the outstanding support they give to the Armed Forces Community. Before the main event the Band of the Royal Marines Plymouth, laid on a display in the grounds of the Maritime Reserve Base in Cardiff bay.
In total 38 Gold awards were presented at the event hosted by Wales Reserve Forces and Cadet Association (WA RFCA), of the 140 given to organisations across the UK. Representing the highest badge of honour, Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Awards are awarded to those that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.
Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Leo Docherty said: “I would like to thank all the organisations who have proven their support for the Defence community during such unprecedented and challenging times.
“The vast range of those recognised this year demonstrates how employing the Armed Forces community makes a truly positive and beneficial impact for all employers, regardless of size, sector or location.”
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.
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.
This year, organisations include NHS trusts, educational institutions, financial services, hotels, charities, law firms, police services, football clubs and museums.
Nearly 50 per cent are a small or medium-sized enterprise and 72 per cent are private companies, demonstrating the wide range of organisations offering support to the military community regardless of size or location.
The opening address was given by Lieutenant General James Swift, Chief of Defence People (CDP) with the awards presented jointly by Rear Admiral Keith Beckett, from Abbey Wood and regional service heads, Royal Marines Brigadier Jock Fraser, Brigadier Andrew Dawes and Air Commodore Adrian Williams as well as Commander Maritime Reserves, Commodore Mel Robinson.
“It is an enormous privilege to be here at HMS Cambria, thanking the Gold ERS winners from across the three regions, everyone should be very proud of their contribution to Defence”, said Commodore Mel Robinson. “My Naval Reservists could not achieve what they do without the continued support from their employers and we truly appreciate the effort.
“The 38 awards tonight represent nearly a third of those given nationally, and reflects how important the Wales, West Midlands and Wessex regions are in supporting the Armed Forces community.”
