Council Wins Gold Award in National Scheme
The Vale of Glamorgan Council has won the gold award in the UK government’s ‘Defence Employer Recognition Scheme’ (ERS).
The ERS encourages employers to support the armed forces and inspire others to do the same.
Bronze, silver and gold awards are given to employers that demonstrate support for the armed forces community and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
To achieve the gold award, employers must satisfy an extensive list of achievements such as signing the Armed Forces Covenant, proactively demonstrating forces-friendly credentials and help leavers of the armed forces to transition into employment.
Some of the ways the Council do this is by providing extra paid leave for reservists and having supportive HR policies in place for veterans and volunteers.
In addition to this, the Council work directly with armed forces veterans and their families, providing free advice and support on a range of matters.
Cllr Eddie Williams, Vale of Glamorgan Council Armed Forces Champion said: “This is a great achievement for the council and is in no small part due to the amazing work of our staff, who provide invaluable support to veterans and armed forces families.
“We’re delighted to be one of only 156 organisations throughout the whole of the UK to achieve the highest-level award.”
“We continue our commitment to supporting ex-Armed Forces personnel. We want to ensure that our Armed Forces community are treated fairly and are incredibly proud to have service families living and working in the Vale.”
Other local authority winners of the gold award this year also include Cardiff Council, Denbighshire Council and Wrexham Council.