Newark and Sherwood District Council has achieved the gold award certificate for its support of employees linked to the armed services, either through active service, as veterans, or as the family of service people.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a voluntary pledge made by employers, to demonstrate support for the community. Building on basic principles, employers build their covenant to suit their own circumstances, adapting pledges to make them appropriate.
By signing the covenant, the employer gains the opportunity to be recognised by the Employer Recognition Scheme, to show that it is providing tangible employment and support to service people, veterans and their families.
To gain gold accreditation, Newark and Sherwood District Council provided employees with 10 additional paid days of leave for reservists in order to carry out annual training. Those who are voluntary leaders in military cadet organisations were granted five days of annual leave to attend training camps and courses
It also appointed an Armed Forces Officer to coordinate its new Armed Forces Network, and publicised its commitment and policies on staff notices, at conferences, and via its website.
Councillor Keith Girling, deputy leader and Armed Forces Champion at Newark and Sherwood District Council, 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.”
John Robinson, chief executive of Newark and Sherwood District Council, added: “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 told Benefits Expert that its commitment to armed forces employees and their families was part of its wider approach to inclusion and wellbeing, as well as its aim to stand out as an employer of choice. Some of the benefits on offer to all employees include flexible working, discounted staff parking and gym memberships, and a cycle-to-work scheme.
