Wescom Group receives Defence Employers Recognition Scheme Gold Award

13/07/2023

Wescom Group is proud to be one of 14 organisations in the East Midlands to receive the Defence Employers Recognition Scheme Gold Award.

The award recognises companies that give outstanding support and advocacy for the Armed Forces community. This exceptional accomplishment reflects our steadfast dedication to actively supporting and championing the involvement of the Armed Forces within the UK’s defence and maritime industry.

Wescom Group, which is headquartered in Derby, takes immense pride in being recognised at the highest level for our unwavering commitment to fostering Armed Forces engagement, and we remain resolute in our pursuit of excellence in this vital area.

Incredibly honoured to receive the Gold Award

CEO Ross Wilkinson, says, “We are incredibly honoured to receive the Gold Award within the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, as it acknowledges our unwavering commitment to supporting the armed forces community. This prestigious accolade not only validates our efforts but also serves as a catalyst for us to inspire and encourage other organisations to join us in creating a positive and inclusive environment that embraces the values of the Armed Forces Covenant.”

Earlier this year, our Vice President of Defence Sales, David Griffiths re-signed the Armed Forces Covenant, symbolising Wescom Group’s dedication to upholding its principles and further reinforcing our support for the Armed Forces community.

Across the country, only 193 organisations have been awarded a Ministry of Defence Gold Award this year.

The scheme, launched in 2013, is the highest badge of honour for those who employ — and support — military personnel, service leavers, and their families.

Organisations are only eligible to apply for the Ministry of Defence Gold Award after signing the Armed Forces Covenant and achieving the Silver Award in the Employer Recognition Scheme.

Forces-friendly credentials

Recipients must also proactively demonstrate their Forces-friendly credentials as part of their recruiting and selection processes. They must also, amongst other policies, provide their Reservists with at least 10 days of additional paid leave for training.

Dr Andrew Murrison, Minister for Defence People, Veterans and Service Families, says, “I would like to thank all the organisations that have been recognised in this year’s Awards.

“I’m delighted that we have seen so many organisations recognised with a Gold Award. Their continued support demonstrates the unique benefits and strengths that our Armed Forces community can bring to the workplace.”

Bruce Spencer, Regional Employer Engagement Director, East Midlands RFCA, adds, “The positive support from employers in the East Midlands, particularly for Reserves, Cadets and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, has generated considerable momentum. The East Midlands can be proud of the support these employers show to the Defence community.

“Likeminded businesses who are not currently part of the Employer Recognition Scheme can do so by signing the Armed Forces Covenant.”

Wescom Group and the other recipients will be presented with their Gold Awards at a high-profile ceremony in October