Costain : honoured for outstanding support towards the Armed Forces

NEWS ARTICLE

16 July 2021

The Ministry of Defence has acknowledged Costain with the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for its outstanding support of the Armed Forces community.

Being the highest badge of honour, they are awarded to companies that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.

Minister for Defence people and veterans, Leo Docherty made the announcement.

'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,' he said.

To win an award, organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for Reservists and have supportive HR (Human Resources) policies in place for veterans, Reserves, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, as well as spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces. They 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.

Costain now offers a new Services and Services Families Network, launched earlier this year (2021) on Armed Forces Day.

There are 140 gold award winners including NHS (National Health Service) trusts, educational institutions, financial services, hotels, charities, law firms, police services, football clubs and museums. 50 per cent are a small or medium-sized enterprise and 72 per cent are private companies, proving the wide range of organisations offering support to the military community regardless of size, sector, or location.