News

December 5th 2024

Hidden beneath the streets, the Churchill War Rooms were the secret headquarters where Britain’s leaders plotted our route to victory during World War Two.

Churchill famously described Reserves as “twice the citizen” for their contributions to both the Armed Forces and civic society and the same can arguably be said for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers.

These individuals, along with service-leavers and military spouses – who make huge sacrifices for our country’s security – sit at the very heart of the Employer Recognition Scheme.

The Scheme recognises employers that support these extraordinary people and inspire other organisations to do the same by presenting Bronze, Silver and – for showcasing excellence – Gold Awards.

Winners of the 2024 Gold Award in the East Midlands included: Caterpillar BCP, DEA Aviation, DHU Healthcare, East Midlands Ambulance Service, GXO, Lincolnshire Community Health Service NHS Trust, MTMS and XPO.

A special occasion

Fred Hopkins is the Head of Engagement at East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association, which administers the scheme in the region on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

He said: “The War Rooms was a special backdrop to celebrate these special Forces-friendly employers. It was a powerful reminder of the debt we owe to those who serve and the inspiring contributions of the Defence community, past and present.

“We look forward to building on the strong working relationships already established with our new Gold holders to continue to both support Defence and champion the benefits of employing the Armed Forces community.”

Revalidations

 We are also pleased to announce that Charnwood Borough Council, Derbyshire Community Health Services, Inzpire Ltd, Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust and Rushcliffe Borough Council have recently been re-awarded their Gold status in the Employer Recognition Scheme.

Read our beginners guide to the Employer Recognition Scheme to discover more