Bracknell Forest Council has been awarded the highest honour in the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) this week.
The council has been commended with an ERS Gold Award, recognising its outstanding commitment to supporting the armed forces community. It formally recognises the exceptional support the council provides for serving personnel, reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers and military families.
The Gold Award, which is the highest possible award under the MoD scheme, reflects our long-standing commitment to making sure the contribution of the armed forces community is recognised, valued and celebrated across the borough.
As a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant, the council works to make sure that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly and are not disadvantaged because of their service.
The council also plays an active role in the Bracknell Forest Civilian Military Partnership, working alongside UK Defence and local community partners to strengthen support for the armed forces community.
Additionally, we are proud to have a close, collaborative and supportive working relationship with the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, a key part of the British Army where all officers (regular and reserves) are trained to take on the responsibility of leading their soldiers.
Cllr Georgia Pickering, cabinet member for housing, community safety and communication, and armed forces community champion, said:
"Receiving the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award is a significant achievement for Bracknell Forest Council and reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the armed forces community.
"We are proud to recognise the invaluable contribution made by serving personnel, reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers and their families. Through our work with the Armed Forces Covenant and the Bracknell Forest Civilian Military Partnership, we will continue to build strong relationships with our partners and ensure that those who serve our nation receive the support and opportunities they deserve."
Cllr Mike Forster, deputy armed forces community champion, added:
“Achieving the Gold Award places Bracknell Forest Council among a select group of employers recognised nationally for their leadership in supporting the armed forces community. It demonstrates the council's commitment to creating an inclusive organisation that values the unique skills and experiences of members of the community. I’m delighted that through this Gold Award, the Ministry of Defence has recognised all the important work we are doing to locally to support our armed forces community.”
The council is continuing to develop forces-friendly employment policies, actively champion the armed forces community and promote employment opportunities for those leaving military service. These initiatives help create an inclusive workplace where the skills, experience and dedication of the armed forces community are recognised and valued.
More information on support available to our armed forces community is available online.
