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BCP is part of Caterpillar Inc., the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. With sites in Desford and Stockton, BCP in the UK has a workforce of about 1,600 people, with Reservists, Veterans, and military partners amongst them.

In support of the Armed Forces, BCP in the UK offers up to 10 days of paid leave per year to Reservists for training and has made donations to military charities. A UK branch of their Armed Forces services network has been established. And a mobilisation policy is also in place to ensure a smooth transition for Reservists called-up to serve and a smooth transition for Reservists returning to the workplace.

Armed Forces personnel and their families add great value to businesses and society and the Armed Forces Covenant provides an opportunity for employers to publicly confirm they recognise and support this and will ensure they face no disadvantage in employment.

From councils to construction companies, emergency services, food outlets and sports clubs, a wide spectrum of organisations have signed the Covenant since it was launched in 2014.

At a national level, the Armed Forces Covenant scheme reached 10,000 signatories in late March 2023. 

Rob Walker, Operations Manager for BCP UK, said: “By signing this covenant we are saying that as an organisation we recognise the contribution that Service personnel, Reservists, Veterans, the Cadet movement, and military families make to our country, our community, and our organisation.

“It also means we will continue to support Armed Forces personnel and their family who are employed on our BCP sites in the UK.”

Kirstie Lawrence, Deputy Employer Engagement Director (East Midlands), Ministry of Defence, was also in attendance. She said: “I could not be more delighted to celebrate BCP as our 1,000th signing of the Armed Forces Covenant here in the East Midlands.

“Caterpillar embodies the spirit of support for the Armed Forces community. They have shown a keen commitment to encouraging the Defence community to apply for roles and ensure staff are greatly supported and in a position to utilise the very best of their talents.

“By having a positive approach to mobilisation, they join a very special group of organisations who can be proud to play an active and valued part in the defence of our nation. I am proud to have BCP on board.”

To find out more about how you can pledge your support, please contact Kirstie Lawrence, Deputy Regional Employer Engagement Director, East Midlands RFCA, via either 07593553815 or em-empspdep@rfca.mod.uk or visit our Armed Forces Covenant web page.