A Cumbria NHS trust is among 140 employers awarded gold for its support for the Armed Forces.
The Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Trust is one of 18 employers in the North West to receive the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for its outstanding support towards the Armed Forces community, Defence Minister Leo Docherty announced today.
Representing the highest 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 to 493.
The following 18 employers from across the North West have been awarded Gold:
- Armed Forces Community HQ
- Blackpool Teaching Hospitals
- Burnley Council
- Commando Joe’s
- Greater Manchester Combined Authority
- Healthier Heroes CIC
- Nuclear Transport Solutions (NTS)
- Isle of Man Government
- Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Trust
- Manchester City Council
- Merseyside Police
- Salford City Council
- Self Build Heroes
- Stockport NHS Foundation Trust
- Transport Training Academy Ltd
- University of Chester
- Veterans in Sefton CIO (VIS)
- Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
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.”
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.
Jan Cox, regional employer engagement director at the North West of England and the Isle of Man Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (NW RFCA), said: “On behalf of the Ministry of Defence, we are delighted to be able to recognise the support and commitment given to the Armed Forces Covenant by employers in the region, through the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold awards.
“Each recipient has demonstrated the highest level of support to the Armed Forces community and we thank them for their outstanding commitment and enthusiasm.”
