Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme

Kent Police has been recognised with an award for its commitment to supporting members of the Armed Forces community.

The force is one of a number of organisations to receive a gold award as part of the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme. To be considered for the award, organisations must provide an additional five days’ leave for reservists and have supportive HR policies in place for employees who are veterans, reservists and Army Cadet Force adult volunteers, as well as partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.

Organisations should also advocate the benefits of supporting those within the Armed Forces community by encouraging others to engage in the Employer Recognition Scheme and sign the Armed Forces Covenant, which is a promise to ensure serving or ex-military personnel are treated fairly.

Deputy Chief Officer Ian Drysdale collected the Gold award on board HMS Warrior in Portsmouth on 6 October 2022. On his left is Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkinson Esq, and on his right, Lt Gen James Swift OBE, Chief of Defence People.

Passion

On receiving the Gold award Temporary Chief Constable (now Chief Constable) Tim Smith said:

‘I am both delighted and proud that Kent has been recognised for the support provided to those from a military background.‘Since we signed the bespoke Armed Forces Covenant in 2020, the force has gained Bronze, Silver and now Gold status for the way in which the scheme has been embraced. Under the leadership of Deputy Chief Officer Ian Drysdale, Inspector Andy Miller and many others involved in the network, they are truly committed to ensuring that serving or ex-military personnel are treated fairly.‘This important work will ensure that the Armed Forces community are supported and that their valuable skills and experience contribute to providing a quality service within our communities. A huge well done to everyone involved in achieving this Gold status.’

Deputy Chief Officer Ian Drysdale added:

‘Kent Police has a proud and long association with the Armed Forces and this award recognises our achievements but we have ambitious plans to go further. Whether that is supporting our own veterans, backing those who proudly continue to serve as reservists or by recognising how we can help current members of the Armed Forces that we come into contact with – we will look to continue to improve.‘We are currently recruiting and we encourage any members of the Armed Forces who are leaving the service to consider Kent Police as a potential employer. If you are due to leave soon and have a service character assessment of exemplary then we would very much welcome a discussion with you.'