Ashfield District Council recognised for outstanding Armed Forces Support
Ashfield District Council has been honoured with the Gold Award for Outstanding Support to the Armed Forces.
The Council is one of just 11 organisations in the East Midlands to have received the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for their outstanding support towards the Armed Forces community, Defence Minister Leo Docherty announced today.
Representing the highest possible badge of honour, Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards are awarded to those that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.
This year’s awardees brings the total number of Gold holders across the UK to 493.
Carol Cooper-Smith, Chief Executive of Ashfield District Council, said:
“Here at Ashfield District Council, we pride ourself on our support for our armed forces and we promote positive engagement with the extended armed forced family both inside and outside of the Council.
“We are therefore delighted to have been awarded a prestigious Gold award by the Ministry of Defence for our work and we will continue to strive to be an exemplar.”
Cllr David Walters, Armed Forces Champion at Ashfield District Council, said:
“We are humbled to be receiving this prestigious award. It marks our fantastic work, in not only showing how proud we are of those who have served for our country, but also that we are a veteran friendly employer as an authority.
“We will continue to be proud of the Armed Forces and ensure that service personnel, families and veterans can access the help and support available.”
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.
Additionally, Ashfield District Council has drawn up a war memorial restoration plan and rolling cleaning programme, formally approved an Employing Reservists Policy and provided concessionary rates for veterans and serving personnel at all of its leisure centres.
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.”
