Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service has signed the Armed Forces Covenant; the Service’s promise to provide support to the Armed Forces Community.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Simon Hardiman met yesterday(25 October) with LT Col Toby Gaddum, SO1 Engagement (Reserves) 11th Signal & West Midlands Brigade to show the Service’s support. By signing the covenant, the Service formally recognises the value serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families bring to the organisation and makes a commitment to fair treatment for all.
Through this commitment SFRS will uphold the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant which include:
Promoting that SFRS are an Armed Forces friendly organisation.
Supporting the employment of veterans of any age and working with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) on establishing a tailored employment pathway for service leavers.
Supporting the employment of Armed Forces spouses and partners, and advertising job opportunities through armed forces friendly recruitment agencies and charities.
Recognising relevant military qualifications in our recruitment/application processes.
Offering a degree of flexibility in granting leave for Armed Forces spouses and partners.
Supporting our employees who choose to be members of the reserve forces, by accommodating their training and deployment where possible.
Offering support where possible to our local cadet units, either in our local community or in local schools, and encouraging our employees to be cadet helpers or instructors.
Actively promoting and when possible, participating in Armed Forces Day.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Simon Hardiman said:
“The Service will work hard to support the Armed Forces whether they are currently serving, veterans or connected to the Armed Forces through loved ones. As part of our dedicated support, we will be offering free safe and well visits to all armed service staff and will offer free smoke alarms as part of the visits.
“The skills, experience, and discipline they offer is of huge value and is appreciated here at SFRS. We believe people from the Armed Forces can have a huge impact on our overall aim to make Shropshire safer.
“By signing the covenant, we are solidifying our commitment to support them in maintaining their health and wellbeing. I’m extremely proud to be able to formally display that we as a Service have made this promise.”
Chair of the Shropshire and Wrekin Fire Authority Eric Carter said:
“I am delighted that we have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and look forward to working collaboratively with the Armed Forces and their families.”
-ENDS-
