Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS) has been recognized for its outstanding commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community by achieving the Gold Award in the Employer Recognition Scheme. This prestigious award is presented to employers who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the Armed Forces Covenant, a promise to support those who serve or have served in the military.
The Employer Recognition Scheme was launched to reward employers who support Defence People objectives and encourage others to do the same. This includes employing serving and former members of the Armed Forces community and demonstrating flexibility towards training and mobilization commitments for Reservists and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers.
LFRS’s Gold Award is a testament to the organization’s tireless efforts to support the Armed Forces community. Station manager Rod Steele expressed his pride in the achievement, stating, “Achieving gold reflects our recognition of the commitment made by some of our staff who serve as reservists. More importantly, it acknowledges the broader Armed Forces community within Lancashire. Many of us at LFRS have connections through family members, friends, or neighbors who are currently serving or have served in the Armed Forces.”
The organization’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community is not limited to its employees. LFRS has a strong support network for veterans, including those from the Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force, as well as family members of veterans and several reservists. Deputy Chief Fire Officer Steve Healey emphasized the importance of this support, saying, “I’m well aware of the valuable qualities and skills they contribute to organizations and communities through their military experience. The Gold Award highlights our dedication to the Armed Forces Covenant, and it’s wonderful to see that our support has made such a positive impact on the Armed Forces community.”
To achieve the Gold Award, LFRS had to demonstrate a range of criteria, including having previously signed the Armed Forces Covenant, proactively advocating and supporting Defence, and communicating their commitment both internally to employees and externally to the wider community, through established policies and examples of support.
The Gold Award is not a one-time achievement, as LFRS must renew its accreditation every three years to maintain its status. This ensures that the organization continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community and upholds the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant.
LFRS’s achievement serves as a shining example for other organizations to follow. By supporting the Armed Forces community, employers can benefit from the valuable skills and experiences that military personnel bring to the workplace. Additionally, supporting the Armed Forces community is a vital part of upholding the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant and demonstrating respect for those who serve or have served in the military.
In conclusion, LFRS’s Gold Award is a testament to the organization’s dedication to supporting the Armed Forces community. By recognizing and valuing the skills and experiences of military personnel, LFRS is not only doing the right thing but also reaping the benefits of a more diverse and skilled workforce. As the organization continues to support the Armed Forces community, it serves as a beacon of excellence for other organizations to follow.
Benefits of Supporting the Armed Forces Community
Supporting the Armed Forces community can bring numerous benefits to organizations, including:
- Access to a pool of skilled and experienced employees
- Improved employee morale and retention
- Enhanced reputation and brand recognition
- Opportunities for business growth and development
- Improved community engagement and relationships
Challenges and Opportunities for Employers
Employers may face challenges when supporting the Armed Forces community, including:
- Managing flexible working arrangements for reservists and cadets
- Providing training and development opportunities for military personnel
- Ensuring a welcoming and inclusive work environment for military personnel
- Managing the transition of military personnel back into civilian life
However, these challenges also present opportunities for employers to demonstrate their commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community and to reap the benefits of a more diverse and skilled workforce.
Conclusion
LFRS’s Gold Award is a testament to the organization’s dedication to supporting the Armed Forces community. By recognizing and valuing the skills and experiences of military personnel, LFRS is not only doing the right thing but also reaping the benefits of a more diverse and skilled workforce. As the organization continues to support the Armed Forces community, it serves as a beacon of excellence for other organizations to follow.