Blackpool Council receives MOD’s Employer Recognition Gold Award

The council is one of 193 organisations recognised nationally by the UK Government for their support towards the armed forces community.

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award acknowledges the positive role that employers play in supporting defence and inspiring others to do the same. To win a gold, an organisation must demonstrate exceptional commitment to the armed forces community.

Gold status is given to those who implement HR policies that accommodate the needs of the armed forces community, while continuously promoting this advocacy within their own networks and industry.

Blackpool Council has introduced and implemented a number of policies and initiatives to be an armed force friendly organisation.

These include the adoption of a policy to allow staff to take paid leave in order to fulfil their role as a reservists or adult cadet volunteer.

The council also recently established internal meetings for staff with service history to come together, network and shape council work.

It has also signed up for the Pride in Veterans Standard a set of guidelines established by Fighting with Pride to ensure that veteran-focused organisations treat the entire veteran community with dignity, respect, and understanding when accessing services and support.

Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns said:

"Our armed forces community make incredible sacrifices to keep the nation safe, and it is only right that they are welcomed and valued in the workplace. This scheme aligns with this government's determination to renew the nation's contract with our armed forces. I would like to thank the nearly 200 organisations that have been recognised with a gold award this year. Their continued support ensures that our armed forces community are given opportunities needed to flourish."

Blackpool Council's Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Major Adrian Hoyle, said:

"We are delighted that Blackpool Council has been awarded the Gold in the Employer Recognition Scheme. It is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved, both for our armed forces colleague network and colleagues across the organisation, as well as our supportive partners in the town. We are committed to creating a workspace and culture where everyone can feel they belong. This award is proudly received and I thank everyone who has been committed to the policy and actions taken."