By Sharon Smith
•
19 Nov, 2021
November 17,2021 Hazelwood Carpentry Contractors Limited have been presented with the prestigious Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award at a special ceremony in Cardiff. The joint regional event held on November 17 at HMS CAMBRIA saw employers from Wales, West Midlands and Wessex recognised for the outstanding support they give to the Armed Forces Community. Recipients from Wales were: Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council; Butterfly Data; Cardiff and Vale College; Defence Electronics & Components Agency; E-Cycle Limited; Empower Support for the Voluntary Sector Ltd; Firing Line Museum of The Queen's Dragoon Guards and The Royal Welsh; Hazelwood Carpentry Contractors Ltd; Hywel Dda University Health Board and Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust. Representing the highest badge of honour, Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Awards are awarded to those that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families. Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Leo Docherty said: “I would like to thank all the organisations who have proven their support for the Defence community during such unprecedented and challenging times. “The vast range of those recognised this year demonstrates how employing the Armed Forces community makes a truly positive and beneficial impact for all employers, regardless of size, sector or location.” To win an award, organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for Reservists and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, Reserves, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, as well as spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces. Organisations must also advocate the benefits of supporting those within the Armed Forces community by encouraging others to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and engage in the Employer Recognition Scheme. This year, organisations include NHS trusts, educational institutions, financial services, hotels, charities, law firms, police services, football clubs and museums. Nearly 50 per cent are a small or medium-sized enterprise and 72 per cent are private companies, demonstrating the wide range of organisations offering support to the military community regardless of size, sector or location. The evening began with a performance from the Royal Marines Band in a sunset ceremony. Guests were then welcomed by the Chief Executive of the RFCA for Wales Colonel Dominic Morgan OBE who introduced the Chief of Defence People Lieutenant General James Swift OBE, who gave the opening address. The Welsh awards were presented jointly by Rear Admiral Keith Beckett CBE and Air Officer Wales, Air Commodore Adrian Williams OBE.