Council chiefs urge Harborough employers to work more closely with the armed forces

Council chiefs have urged employers to work more closely with the armed forces at an event in Market Harborough.

Businesses heard how they can “benefit hugely” from improving their links with the military community.

Harborough District Council hosted the ‘Joining Forces’ get-together at Harborough Innovation Centre on Monday March 16.

The local authority is encouraging businesses and organisations to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant and “build their reputations as forces-friendly employers”.

The council was also raising awareness of the diversity of the forces’ community as a recruitment source.

Reservists and veterans bring “transferable skills and qualities to the civilian workplace, developed throughout their military careers”.

The ‘Joining Forces’ event was also a chance for businesses to learn about the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

The initiative acknowledges employers providing exceptional support to veterans, serving personnel, reservists and family members of those in the armed forces.

Those businesses handed bronze, silver and gold awards as part of this project can gain access to free leadership and development courses to help enhance the skills of their staff.

Cllr Rani Mahal, the council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “This event was a great opportunity for employers to understand the strength and wealth of skills that the armed forces community can bring along as employees.

“I’d like to thank everyone who came and supported the event with such enthusiasm.”

If your business or organisation is interested in signing the covenant then contact the council at [email protected]

To find out more about the work the council is doing to support the armed forces community visit www.harborough.gov.uk/armedforces

For more details on What the Armed Forces Covenant means for businesses visit www.gov.uk/government/publications/corporate-covenant-guidance