Colchester City Council is delighted to announce it has been successful with its Gold Award revalidation, in the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), for its work to support the Defence and Armed Forces community. This award continues to recognise our commitments to supporting the Armed Forces community, following our original Gold Award achievement in 2019.
Colchester has a historic and established relationship with the Armed Forces, owing to the centuries-old link between the city and its garrison. The council was also one of the first local authorities to sign up to the official Defence Discount Service, in 2017.
Councillor David King, leader of Colchester City Council and Armed Forces Champion, said: “The council is proud that our support for our Armed Forces, their families, and the Garrison, has been recognised. From discounts for Armed Forces families and veterans at Colchester Leisure World, to community engagement events and advice and support to Armed Forces Day and Remembrance events, we look to make sure they feel valued by the city.
“We are honoured to continue as a Gold Award holder and remain dedicated to strengthening our historic connection with the Armed Forces community. This prestigious honour reflects the council's ongoing commitment to supporting current and former members of the military and their families.”
Lieutenant Colonel Ed Rankin, Commander of Colchester Garrison, said: “The Garrison enjoys a close and productive working relationship with Colchester City Council, which is aware of and responsive to the needs of the town’s military community. I congratulate the council on receiving the Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme – Regular and Reserve military personnel, their families, veterans, and cadet organisations have all already benefitted from the council’s work towards receiving this prestigious status.”
The Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) acknowledges businesses and organisations that have provided exceptional support to the armed forces community and defence by going above and beyond their covenant pledges. This allows the Ministry of Defence to publicly thank and honour those organisations for their support.
More information about the Ministry of Defence’s Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards and the ERS can be found at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/defence-employer-recognition-scheme/defence-employer-recognition-scheme
For more information on the council's work with the Armed Forces, please visit colchester.gov.uk/armedforces
Page last reviewed: 16 December 2024