Council achieves Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award

Date published: 23rd August 2024

North Norfolk District Council are pleased to announce that we have been awarded the Gold Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) in recognition for our commitment to the Armed Forces.

As a Council, we have signed up to the Armed Forces Covenant and have pledged:

“To acknowledge and understand that those who serve and who have served in the armed forces and their families should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy and society they serve with their lives"

The Council has previously been awarded the Bronze Award (2022) and the Silver Award (2023) and has now been awarded the Gold Award.

To achieve gold recognition, the Council provided evidence demonstrating how as an employer, it supports employees and their families who currently serve or who have previously served.

The Council proactively promoted and encouraged Parish Councils and Voluntary Organisations in North Norfolk to adopt and sign their own Armed Forces Covenant Pledge and apply for the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Bronze award.

Cllr. John Toye, Armed Forces Champion, said:

“I am delighted that North Norfolk District Council have embraced the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and shown commitment to our armed services. I thank officers for the work and commitment that is required for the achievement of this award."

As well as working with employers, the Armed Forces Covenant also provides support to the armed forces community, providing assistance towards:

• education and family well-being
• housing
• starting a new career
• access to healthcare
• financial assistance
• discounted services

Find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant here - www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/armedforces