The Ministry of Defence’s Gold Awards represent the highest badge of honour available to those that employ and support serving personnel, veterans, and their families.
The Council will be among 100 organisations to be presented with the accolade on 12 November, 2019, at the National Army Museum in London.
Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace said: “These awards recognise the outstanding support for our armed forces from employers across Britain and I would like to thank and congratulate each and every one.
“Regardless of size, location or sector, employing ex-forces personnel is good for business and this year we have doubled the number of awards in recognition of the fantastic support they give.”
Supporting our armed forces community
Stirling Council’s Finance and Economy Committee governs the local authority’s HR policies, which have been supportive of the Employer Recognition Scheme since its launch in 2014.
Its convenor, Cllr Margaret Brisley, said: “We are honoured to receive this award which salutes our commitment to supporting our armed forces community and ensuring they are treated fairly. A huge well done to all involved in securing this recognition.”
In its commendation, the local authority was praised for its longstanding commitment to Defence. This included:
- Delivering an annual Armed Forces Day, attracting thousands of visitors and hosting key employers and influencers
- Its close links with the 51st Infantry Brigade and Army Scotland HQ which were recently based in the city
- Providing generous leave and support for Reservists
- Having a guaranteed interview scheme and work placements for service personnel
- Praise for Chief HR Officer, Kristine Johnson for being a shining example of the Council’s commitment to Defence
- An armed forces network for employees who have served.
Enhance the equality and diversity of our workforce
Vice Convener of the Committee, Cllr Alison Laurie said: “This prestigious accolade recognises that Stirling Council values its armed forces personnel and their families, along with all its employees, and is continuing to enhance the equality and diversity of our workforce.”
Winners of the award have received recognition for initiatives such as employing veterans, supporting individuals transitioning out of the armed forces into a new career and providing flexibility for Reservists.
Each has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, and where possible, engages with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) to promote the recruitment of service leavers, as well as honouring individual pledges of support.
Fantastic achievement
Stirling Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Bryan Flannagan, a former submarine Naval Officer, said: “I am extremely proud that the Council has earned this award, which highlights its range of positive policies and support networks for the armed forces community. I would like to thank all the Council Officers and everyone involved in this fantastic achievement.”
The 100 winners have been recognised for their long-term commitment to the Armed Forces, with companies from the public and private sector achieving the top grade. Included are 23 Local Authorities, 13 NHS Hospitals and Trusts and 29 SMEs.
Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer said: “Veterans make a huge contribution to businesses across the country and it’s fantastic to see a record breaking number of organisations recognised for their support.
“We’re working closely with businesses to help them further understand the huge value that veterans, reservists and military spouses can bring to their organisation.”
Background info:
Stirling Council was awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award from the MOD in 2014 and this was reconfirmed in 2017
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. More information about the Armed Forces Covenant and how to get involved is at https://www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk/