Chamber achieves gold award for support of Armed Forces
Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) have been recognised among 140 organisations who have received the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for their outstanding support to the Armed Forces community.
The Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award is the highest honour awarded to those who employ and support veterans and their families.
To be eligible to win the award, organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for Reservists and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, Reserves, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, as well as spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.
They must also advocate the benefits of supporting those within the Armed Forces community by encouraging others to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and engage in the Employer Recognition Scheme.
Henrietta Brealey (pictured), chief executive at the GBCC, said: “We first signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2016. Since then we have been working hard to raise awareness of the contribution our armed forces and reservists make to the country and business community and be a supportive employer ourselves.
“We are honoured to be one of just 140 employers across the country receiving a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award this year.
“The West Midlands Reserve Forces & Cadets Association team have been fantastic throughout at supporting us in developing and demonstrating our commitment. I would absolutely encourage employers reading this to find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant too. ”
Other gold award-winning organisations include NHS trusts, educational institutions, financial services, hotels, charities, law firms, police services, football clubs and museums.
Nearly 50 per cent are a small or medium-sized enterprise and 72 per cent are private companies, demonstrating the wide range of organisations offering support to the military community regardless of size, sector or location.
Siamha Butt, head of engagement for the West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association, said: “140 employers across the UK have been awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award for their exceptional support towards the Armed Forces community.
“In our local region 15 new organisations have been recognised for their outstanding dedication, gaining the scheme 's highest award. West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association would like to congratulate all of the winners, including the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, who have achieved their Gold Award.
“The GBCC have continued to work with the Association and the wider forces community to show their support for Defence, demonstrating strong advocacy for those who serve and their families. Well done to Henrietta and her team! ”
For the full list of winners across the West Midlands region, click here