University achieves highest honour in Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) has received the highest honour from the UK Government for the support provided to members of the Armed Forces community.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme celebrates employers' positive role in supporting defence personnel and inspiring others to do the same.
ARU is among nine organisations across East Anglia which this month have earned the highest honour—the Gold Award—from the Ministry of Defence.
To receive gold, an organisation must show exceptional commitment to the Armed Forces community, implement HR policies that accommodate their needs, and encourage other employers to do the same.
Gold Award winners are powerful advocates for the Armed Forces Covenant, a pledge made by employers to support reservists and bring Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and their families into the workforce. ARU re-signed the Covenant in June.
Michael Almond, Professor of Veterans and Families Studies at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), said:
"Our Armed Forces staff are adept at teaching, speaking, writing, organisational planning, first aid and aiding the development of immediate colleagues. All these attributes are encouraged in their military training, which can be brought back onto campus. Veteran employees bring a wealth of practical skills."
Organisations can only receive a Gold Award under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme if they have previously achieved Bronze and Silver. ARU was awarded Silver in 2021.
