News

July 20th 2022

The Silver ERS Award recognises organisations that have actively demonstrated their support for the Armed Forces community through implementing practical policies in the workplace.  This includes commitments such as paid time off for Reservists and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and ensuring HR policies are inclusive of Veterans and military spouses. 

 The organisations in the East Midlands who have won the prestigious Silver ERS Award this year are:

 ·         Derbyshire:  Cathelco, Derbyshire Alcohol Advice Service, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Lifestyle Accounting Ltd, Porterbrook, Test One

 ·         Leicestershire:  Encore Personnel Services Ltd, Everyone Health, The Carpenter’s Arms, Vets4u

 ·         Lincolnshire:  Lincolnshire Community & Voluntary Service, Sygna (EMEA) Ltd

 ·         Northamptonshire:  North Northamptonshire Council, Pury Erskine, West Northamptonshire Council

·         Nottinghamshire:  Arc Property Services Partnership Ltd, Care After Combat, Centrum Solutions Ltd, Inspection Network Ltd, Intelligent Decisioning Ltd, Nottingham Trams Ltd, Premier Legal LLP, Riverside Health Centre, Youth Enterprise & Employability Academy

 In addition, 37 businesses had their Silver Award re-validated after holding it for at least 5 years. This means they have worked hard to ensure they maintain their support for the Armed Forces community over the last 5 years.

 Under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, employers support Defence personnel and encourage others to do the same. The Scheme has three levels, Bronze, Silver and Gold. To achieve Silver, organisations much proactively demonstrate that the Armed Forces community are not unfairly disadvantaged as part of their recruitment policies. They must also actively ensure their workforce is aware of their positive policies towards Defence people issues. 

 Kirstie Lawrence, the Ministry of Defence’s Deputy Regional Employer Engagement Director for the East Midlands, said: 

“We are delighted that so many local businesses have been recognised with this Silver Award. Despite the pressures of the last few years, these companies have taken the time to ensure our Armed Forces community is supported. It is gratifying to see that, whatever the size of the business, there is a place for the Armed Forces Covenant, and they recognise the benefits of working with Defence. They should be really proud of this significant achievement.”

 2022 marks the ninth year of the Awards scheme. In addition to these 24 Silver winners, the East Midlands region also had a record 18 Gold Awards this year.

 Find out how you can sign the Armed Forces Covenant and begin your journey.