Birmingham Newman University Achieves Silver Award Recognition for Commitment to Defence Personnel
Over 100 guests gathered at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to celebrate thirty-six regional employers, including Birmingham Newman University, who have gained a prestigious award presented to them on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.
Hosted by the West Midland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association (WM RFCA), the forces-friendly employers were presented with their Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for demonstrating exceptional support towards members of the Armed Forces community.
The Silver Award recognises organisations who implement forces-friendly policies and positive measures within their workforce, proactively supporting members of the Armed Forces and the wider forces family – including Reservists, Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, veterans and military families.
Hailing from the West Midlands, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Staffordshire and Warwickshire counties, this year’s regional winners are from a variety of sectors including construction, education, energy and local government.
Talking about the winners achievements, Darren Knight, Defence Relationship Manager for WM RFCA, added: “On behalf of the Ministry of Defence we are honoured and delighted to be able to recognise the outstanding support and commitment to the Armed Forces, by businesses and organisations across the West Midlands, through the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
“Each recipient has demonstrated not only their support to the Armed Forces Covenant and the wider Armed Forces community, but also that they are prepared to support their Reservists, Service leavers, Forces’ family members, Veterans, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and Cadets in the workplace.”
The awards were presented on behalf of Defence by Lieutenant Colonel Keith Spiers, Head of Engagement for the Army Headquarters Centre. Birmingham Newman University’s award was collected by Giosi Birkett, Director of HR and Kevin Crimmons, Head of Nursing and Allied Health.
Guests were joined by representatives from the local Royal Naval Reserve, Army Reserve and Royal Auxiliary Air Force, with a short Act of Remembrance wrapping up the event at the Armed Forces Memorial.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Employer Recognition Scheme please visit www.wmrfca.org/employers or contact our employer engagement team on wm-ee@rfca.mod.uk
