West Northants Council demonstrates exemplary support for armed forces, securing a gold award in MOD employer recognition scheme
14 July 2023
The ERS gold award is the third step in a constant improvement programme which makes it easier for reservists to find flexible employers and improves employment pathways between the forces and the private and public sectors.
After the initial bronze award in December 2021 which recognised the council’s openness to employing reservists, veterans and anyone connected to the forces, WNC has put in place policies which allow reservists to carry out their military commitments which lead to the council receiving its silver status.
To achieve the gold status in the ERS WNC has shown its commitment to taking on those leaving the services by establishing a guaranteed apprenticeship interview scheme for Cadets and introducing additional paid leave to support staff who serve as Cadet Force Adult Volunteers. The Council has also pledged to support the Armed Forces Community by promoting and supporting local Armed Forces events and charities.
We’re delighted to receive the ERS Gold Award that shows that we recognise the value that our Armed Forces Community members bring and demonstrates the commitment to supporting them. This includes developing training programmes for our front-line staff to better understand the unique challenges of our veterans, promoting our local Cadet units, and working with local Armed Forces charities to work through veterans’ housing challenges.Cllr David Smith, Armed Forces Covenant Member Champion and Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Engagement and Regulatory Service at WNC
Our rapid progression to the next stage of the ERS shows that this council is leading its community and I would urge all employers in West Northants to join us in the scheme and help deliver on the shared duty of care to members of the armed forces community.
Find out more about the Armed Forces Northants and other upcoming events in the local area.