Ashfield District Council were one of just five Nottinghamshire businesses to be presented with a Silver Employer Recognition Scheme award in recognition of its support for Defence personnel through the Armed Forces Covenant.

To achieve a Silver Award, employers need to have signed the covenant and shown flexibility towards the annual training commitments and deployment of Reservists, whilst also supporting the employment of Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, service leavers, and military spouses and partners.

Gillian Welch, Armed Forces lead officer at the council, said: “We are humbled to be receiving this prestigious award. It marks our fantastic work in not only showing how proud we are of those who have served for our country, but also that we are a veteran friendly employer as an authority.

“We will continue to be proud of the Armed Forces and ensure that Service personnel, families and veterans can access the help and support available.”

The five Nottinghamshire winners were Ashfield District Council, Bentleigh Chase, Catena network, DEA Aviation and Rangoon Point. A total of 22 East Midlands employers were recognised at the event.

John Wilson, the Ministry of Defence’s Regional Employer Engagement Director, explained: “We were delighted to be able to present a total of 22 Silver awards to local businesses this year, a confirmation of the great commitment they give to supporting members of the Armed Forces community throughout the East Midlands.

“Employing military trained personnel is highly beneficial to employers; the skills and experiences developed through military training help employers to fill skill gaps in their businesses. These Silver award winners recognise that and actively seek to take advantage of it.”