North East Derbyshire District Council is celebrating after receiving the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, for its outstanding support towards the Armed Forces Community.
Representing the highest badge of honour, the prestigious Gold Awards are awarded to those that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.
Amongst almost seven million employers in the UK, there are only 550 Gold Awards.
Cllr Martin Thacker MBE, Armed Forces Champion for North East Derbyshire District Council and Council Vice Chairman, said: “As Champion for the Armed Forces Community of North East Derbyshire, I am proud for our work to be recognised in this way.
“I have been privileged to support many events within the District and further afield to promote commitment to serving and former service personnel and their families.
“The Council is active in developing working relationships and encouraging other organisations to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant to ensure we collectively provide the deserved support to veterans, those actively serving and their dependents.”
To win an award, organisations must 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.
Cllr Alex Dale, Leader of North East Derbyshire District Council said: “It is a privilege to receive this Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award. It allows the Council to showcase our commitment as a great place to work for cadets and veterans and provide the support and flexibility required by reservists to undertake their essential training. We recognise how the skills and work ethic of these colleagues enrich our workforce and enable us to better deliver services within our community.”
A special ceremony will take place on 2 November at the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire, for the Gold Award winners.
- More information about the support we offer to our Armed Forces Community can be found on our website: www.ne-derbyshire.gov.uk
In 2019, NEDDC re-signed the Armed Forces Covenant for Derbyshire which pledges our commitment and support to the Armed Forces Covenant.