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As an employer we are proud to recognise and welcome members of the workforce with an Armed Forces background. They bring a range of transferable skills and experiences highly valued by the organisation.

In 2024 the Council was awarded Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold by the Ministry of Defence for its enhanced commitment to current and future employees with Armed Forces connections. To achieve this highest award, the Council proved:

• it had signed the Armed Forces Covenant, achieved ERS Silver and proactively showed forces-friendly credentials in their recruiting and selection processes
• offer 10 extra days paid leave for reservists to carry out their military commitments and flexible leave to adult cadet volunteers and to spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces
• actively ensure their workforce is aware of these positive policies
• they are an ambassador of the Covenant to other organisations and employers
• shown they are supporting their local Cadet Forces

What we do

Additionally, the County Council welcomes and promotes job opportunities at the Council to Service leavers and offers guaranteed interviews to those who have a military background, having reached the job specification. 

The Council is also collaborating with the local Cadet Forces by offering them green spaces for field activities. As part of our social value the council encourages its suppliers to sign the Armed Forces Covenant to become forces-friendly employers.

We proudly raise the Armed Forces flag in June each year to show our appreciation to the men and women who make up our Armed Forces. We also celebrate members of the workforce who have Armed Forces backgrounds.

In November, we commemorate an Act of Remembrance for staff, councillors, civic guests and veterans from The Royal British Legion and Regimental Associations.