Defence Employers Recognition Scheme Silver Award
Barnet Council has been recognised for its commitment and continued support to the Armed Forces and has received a Defence Employers Recognition Scheme Silver Award.
Barnet Council’s Armed Forces Champions Angela Richardson and Councillor Lachhya Gurung collected the award on behalf of the council at an awards ceremony at the Royal Automobile Club in Pall Mall on 18 October 2022. The award was presented by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Sir Ken Olisa OBE.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same. The scheme encompasses Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
Commenting on behalf of the council, Chief Executive John Hooton said: “I am delighted Barnet Council has received this recognition. The council is committed to our Armed Forces community, not only as a Defence Employer, recognising the valuable transferable skills service Armed Forces personnel can bring to the workforce, but also in providing services to meet the needs of those who serve, who have served and their families.
“Now, going for the Gold award, we continue to strive to ensure the Armed Forces Community are supported in the borough.”
Peter Germain, Chief Executive of the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Greater London, 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.”
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. The Barnet Armed Forces Covenant was re-signed on 2 November 2021.