Armed Forces veterans working for Newark and Sherwood District Council formally presented the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award certificate at a full council meeting.

The award, which recognises employers who show outstanding support towards the Armed Forces community, was presented to council chairman Coun Sue Saddington and vice-chairman Coun Lydia Hurst.

Deputy leader 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, sick families, and cadets. This really is a testament to our commitment to these wonderful service men and women.”

Chief executive John Robinson re-signed the Armed Forces Covenant on behalf of the council in November 2021, reinstating its promise to encourage awareness, understanding, and integration between the Armed Forces community and the wider local community.

“We firmly remain committed to doing all we can to remember, and honour, the sacrifices made to secure and protect our freedom,” he said.

“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.”

Newark and Sherwood District Council is one of 57 organisations in the East Midlands who currently hold this prestigious award.

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 the award, organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for Reservists and Cadet Leaders to carry out their annual training 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.”