Jackson Fire & Security have recently been given a bronze award from the MOD as part of their Defence Employer Recognition Scheme. The company were awarded this in recognition of their commitment to the Armed Forces having last year signed the Armed Forces Covenant.
Jackson Fire & Security employ three veterans, one Army Reservist and one Cadet Force Adult Volunteer. Through the support offered to these employees, the company were able to demonstrate the employment flexibility on offer to those from a military background.
To be recognised at bronze level, companies have to pledge their support to the armed forces and include existing or prospective employees who are members of the organisation. They also have to demonstrate being armed forces-friendly and are open to employing reservists, armed forces veterans, cadets and military spouses/partners.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) 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.
The ERS is designed primarily to recognise private sector support although public sector organisations such as the emergency services, local authorities, NHS trusts and executive agencies are also eligible to be recognised.
Managing Director, Steve Jackson said: “Following on from signing the Armed Forces Covenant in June last year, we were keen to further demonstrate our support of the armed forces. I was aware within our existing workforce of the key personnel we had involved with the military and how we support them already so I knew we could demonstrate this with the bronze award criteria.”
“We do not plan to stop here with pledging our military support and intend to apply for the Silver award in the coming year. We are proud to have a strong military representation in our workforce and are always looking to expand on this.”