Stratford-on-Avon District Council has been awarded a Silver Award from the Ministry of Defence's Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS).
The prestigious award recognises employers who have actively demonstrated support for the Armed Forces community by implementing policies to help them.
To achieve the Silver award, organisations must proactively demonstrate that the Armed Forces community is not unfairly disadvantaged as part of their recruitment policies.
They must also actively ensure their workforce is aware of their positive policies towards the defence community and understand issues for reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers, and spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.
In November 2024, the District Council signed the Armed Forces Covenant, a commitment to those who serve or have served in the British military, and to their families. By signing, the District Council commits to treating those who serve, or have served in the armed forces, and their families with fairness and respect.
Cllr Susan Juned, Leader of Stratford-on-Avon District Council said: "Being recognised by the Ministry of Defence with this award is a fantastic achievement which demonstrates our ongoing commitment to our serving personnel and veterans, following our Bronze award last year.
"The District Council understands the huge sacrifices made by service personnel and their families to keep our country safe and it is only right we do what we can to support them both during and after their time in uniform."
As part of its ongoing commitment, the District Council offers the following support:
- Organisational Support
Supporting service members, veterans, reservists, and their families. Taking part in events like Armed Forces Day and remembrance ceremonies. Making sure helpful information is easy to find and kept up to date. Teaming up with local organisations to give better support.
- Housing and Housing Allowances
Providing a Housing Team champion to help review processes and guide staff in supporting the Armed Forces Community. Having easy-to-find, up-to-date information to encourage early contact with the Council. Give extra housing priority to some current and former service members. Ensuring Veterans are signposted to local support like the Veterans Contact Point. Making sure War Widows' Pensions and Armed Forces Compensation are not counted in housing benefit or council tax calculations.
- Employment Support
Offering up to 10 days paid leave yearly for training, plus up to 10 days unpaid leave every 3 years for extra training or progression. Allowing time off for deployment (except in rare cases) and help staff return smoothly to work. Guarantees interviews for qualified external candidates who are: currently serving and within 12 weeks of discharge; Veterans within 3 years of leaving service or whose last long-term job was in the Armed Forces. Offering up to 4 weeks of unpaid placements for service leavers, including those who are wounded, injured, or sick.
