Colchester Borough Homes secures Silver Award for Armed Forces support
Colchester Borough Homes (CBH) is delighted to announce it has received the Silver Award in the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). This recognition builds upon our commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community, following our initial Bronze Award achievement in 2022.
The ERS, awarded by the Ministry of Defence, acknowledges organisations that demonstrably go above and beyond in their support of serving personnel, veterans, and their families.
Since signing the Armed Forces Covenant in 2022, CBH has actively pursued initiatives that demonstrate our dedication to this crucial community. We are proud to:
- Champion fair recruitment practices: We guarantee interviews for veterans who meet the minimum job requirements.
- Support career transitions: We collaborate with the Career Transition Partnership to offer tailored employment pathways for veterans.
- Foster a supportive environment: We actively encourage staff to identify themselves as reservists or veterans, fostering a network of mentors for new hires with an Armed Forces background.
- Accommodate deployment needs: We strive to offer flexibility in leave for service spouses and partners during deployments.
- Support military families: We encourage flexible leave arrangements for employees who volunteer with military cadet organisations.
- Promote volunteerism: We offer staff and board members volunteering days to support Armed Forces charities.
CBH is immensely proud of achieving the Silver Award. We remain committed to continually improving our support for the Armed Forces community, serving as a role model for other organisations in the region.
Philip Sullivan, Chief Executive of Colchester Borough Homes, said: “Receiving the Silver Award is a significant milestone for CBH. We are dedicated to ensuring fairness and respect for all members of the Armed Forces community, offering the support they deserve. We are proud to stand alongside our Armed Forces community and continue our commitment to their wellbeing.”
Esme Cole, Chair of the Board, Colchester Borough Homes, added: “The Armed Forces play a vital role in our community. We are committed to removing barriers and fostering an inclusive environment for those with an Armed Forces background.
“Colchester has an historic and established relationship with the Armed Forces, thanks to the centuries-old link between the city and its garrison. We encourage other organisations in Colchester to join us in this endeavour.”
For more information regarding the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-employer-recognition-scheme
