Badge of honour for firms
Two armed forces-friendly organisations in Lanarkshire have been recognised with a top Ministry of Defence award.
NHS Lanarkshire and recruitment firm, Virtue Recruitment Services, each received the Gold Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) award in recognition of their outstanding support of the Armed Forces community.
Representing the highest badge of honour, the ERS award is given to those who employ and support and demonstrate they have supportive policies in place for MoD staff, including reserves, regulars, veterans, Cadet Force volunteers and spouses.
The Lanarkshire organisations were among eight winners presented with the ERS award this year in front of over 100 guests at Edinburgh Castle.
The awards were presented last week by chief of defence people, Lieutenant General James Swift.
NHS Lanarkshire oversees the healthcare of over 600,000 residents and throughout the pandemic, the health board partnered with Armed Forces personnel to swiftly roll out the Covid-19 vaccine, whilst also releasing members of their own staff for mobilisation.
They have also created a unique health service specifically for past and present service personnel.
Craig Cunningham, who is NHS Lanarkshire’s Armed Forces and Veterans’ champion, told the Reformer:“We are fully committed to the Armed Forces Covenant and exhibit this both in terms of delivery of health services for MoD personnel and veterans, as well as support for employment of our reserves and veterans.
“Being given this award is an honour for the staff and local veterans who have designed this unique service and recognises the work that we do.”
Virtue Recruitment have appointed an Armed Forces mentor for their staff team, and are determined to support service personnel and leavers.
Impressively, the company has encouraged many other employers to sign the Armed Forces Covenant, demonstrating their vocal advocacy.
Chief executive, Stuart Craig, said:“I am extremely honoured to be receiving such an important and prestigious award.
“Our goals go far beyond the call of duty, doing more than others expect.
“This is what excellence is all about.
“It comes from striving, maintaining the highest standards, looking after the smallest detail and going the extra mile. Excellence means doing your very best, in everything and in every way.”
This year, 140 organisations received the top MOD award including NHS trusts, educational institutions, financial services, hotels, charities, law firms, police services, football clubs and museums.
The ERS award is the highest accolade granted under the scheme, reserved for businesses and organisations with the strongest commitment to supporting the military community.