Plymouth City Council has been recognised by the UK Government for supporting the Armed Forces community.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, the highest badge of honour, recognises the positive role that employers play in supporting the Armed Forces community.
The Council have been working hard to keep Armed Forces at the heart of Plymouth, its history and culture.
This work includes leading a citywide Armed Forces Covenant (AFC) interest business group whose focus is to:
- Increase businesses community engagement with the AFC
- Increase the number of businesses signed up to the AFC Employee Recognition award
- Work with businesses and partners to secure employment for veterans and those about to leave service (Skills Launchpad).
Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet member for Customer Services, Sport, Leisure and HR and OD, said: “The Armed Forces are part of Plymouth’s DNA – they are at the heart of Plymouth and central to our history, our present and our future.
“As a Council, we are immensely proud of our Armed Forces community and the value it adds to our city.
“As one of the city’s largest employers, we develop our internal people policies and procedures to support the Armed Forces as well influence other organisations in the city. This work includes leading a citywide Armed Forces Covenant interest business group and working with businesses and partners to secure employment for veterans and those about to leave service.
“And as part of our Skills 4 Plymouth plan we help connect veterans and serving members of the Armed Forces and their families with opportunities for skills, training, education, careers and jobs. As an employer of more than 20 veterans, we also offer a guaranteed interview scheme for service leavers.
“We are very proud to achieve this Gold award and it is a testament to our ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces.”
Councillor Pauline Murphy, Armed Forces Champion, said: “It is fantastic that the Council have been recognised for the brilliant work that is done throughout the city to support our strong Armed Forces community.
“As President of the Federation of Ex-Services, and the Royal British Legion Crownhill Branch, I am really passionate about supporting the Armed Forces community in the city, this is so important to me.”