Newark and Sherwood District Council has received the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for outstanding support towards the Armed Forces community.

Representing the highest badge of honour, Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Awards are awarded to organisations that employ and support those who serve, veterans, and their families.

The deputy leader of the council and Armed Forces Champion, Coun Keith Girling, 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.”

Last November council chief executive John Robinson re-signed the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of the council, restating its promise to encourage awareness, understanding and integration between the Armed Forces community and the wider local community.

John said: “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.”

The council is one of 18 organisations in the East Midlands that have won this prestigious award and one of only five in Nottinghamshire.

The Minister for Defence People, Leo Docherty, said: “Regardless of size, location or sector, employing members of the Armed Forces community is good for businesses. These awards recognise the outstanding support for our Armed Forces from employers across the UK and I would like to thank and congratulate each and every one.”

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.

Bruce Spencer, the Ministry of Defence’s regional employer engagement director for the East Midlands, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that so many local companies have been recognised with this Gold Award. It has been a difficult couple of years for businesses, and despite that, these organisations have gone above and beyond to ensure our Armed Forces community is supported.

“They should be very proud of this significant achievement.”

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