How To...

How Businesses Can Support the Armed Forces Community

This week is Armed Forces Week, an opportunity to show support for those who make up the Armed Forces community, including serving personnel, veterans, reservists, and their families. In this blog post, we explore how businesses can be involved in supporting current and former members of our Armed Forces and their families.

The Armed Forces Covenant

One way that organisations can demonstrate their support is by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. This is a promise by the nation that those who serve or have served, and their families, will be treated fairly. By becoming an 'Armed Forces-friendly' employer, you can recognise and benefit from the wide range of unique skills and experiences that these individuals can bring to your organisation and help to diversify the talent in your workforce.

Steps to Support the Armed Forces Community

Employers can choose specific promises or pledges to support their employees within the Armed Forces community. Examples of pledges your organisation could adopt include:

• Promote Your Support: Let everyone know you are an 'Armed Forces-friendly' employer.
• Hire Veterans and Service Leavers: Actively support the employment of veterans.
• Offer Flexible Leave: Provide flexibility in leave for service spouses and partners before, during, and after deployment.
• Support Reservists: Allow leave for training and deployment for reservist employees.
• Provide Discounts: Offer discounts to members of the Armed Forces community.

Signing the Covenant should be done by someone in authority who will ensure that these commitments are implemented effectively.

For more information on the Covenant and how to sign it, visit: Sign the Covenant - Armed Forces Covenant

Additional Support in the East Riding

If you are in the East Riding, additional support is available for the Armed Forces community. For more information, visit East Riding Armed Forces Community Support or email [email protected].

Additional Support in Hull

If you are in Hull, visit https://www.hull.gov.uk/general-advice-support/armed-forces for more information.

The Hull4Heroes support team can be contacted by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01482 534483.

Show your support for the Armed Forces community this Armed Forces Week by taking meaningful steps to recognise and assist those who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation.