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Royal Mail receives the MOD’s highest badge of honour – the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award

Royal Mail has been awarded the highly coveted Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award for our support for the Armed Forces community.

The Ministry of Defence’s ERS Gold Awards represent the highest badge of honour available to businesses that employ and support those who serve, veterans, and their families.

We are one of 100 companies to have been recognised for our long-term commitment to the Armed Forces and Royal Mail will be presented with the award on 12 November at the National Army Museum in London.

The ERS Scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

Employers are recognised for initiatives such as employing veterans, supporting individuals transitioning out of the armed forces into a new career and providing flexibility for reservists. Included are 23 local authorities, 13 NHS hospitals and Trusts and 29 SMEs.

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.’

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.’

Anne Turrell, director organisational development, said: ‘I am delighted that we have been recognised in this way for the work we do in support of our employees connected to the Armed Forces.

‘This award not only recognises our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant but is a reflection of the incredible service our people have given or continue to give to protect our nation.’

Military reservists

Royal Mail actively supports colleagues who are reservists for the UK Armed Forces.

We have around 220 military reservists – one of the largest groups in the country – who combine working for us with protecting their country at home and overseas.

Our association with reservists stretches back into our 500-year history. We continue to do as much as we can to uphold this proud tradition of supporting armed forces personnel and their families, as well as those who have left the services.

Information on the rights and responsibilities for employers and reservists can be obtained here.

23 Aug 2019