Business allies visit the Defence Academy

Visitors being given a talk surrounded by military equipment.

Visitors from 15 regionally based businesses have enjoyed an opportunity to learn more about the role of the Defence Academy.

The businesses were being recognised for their commitment to the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS), which encourages employers to support the armed forces community, while aligning their company values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

Visitors being given a talk surrounded by military equipment.

Speaking after the event, which was partnered by the Wessex Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (RFCA), Jon Beake, Regional Employer Engagement Director for the Southwest said:

“The relationships between defence and the business and charity sectors are ever more important. A key component of defence is the Reserve Forces, and Reservists only have utility with employer support. Visits such as this are crucial to expanding the understanding of defence in the business and charitable sectors. These partnerships can also provide defence and businesses alike with the opportunity to share skills and experience in either direction, helping both become more effective. It’s a win-win.

“On this visit the employers saw part of the small arms collection, before learning how assets in the <a href="https://www.da.mod.uk/study-with-us/colleges-and-schools/defence-college-for-military-capability-integration">Defence College for Military Capability Integration (DCMCI)</a> Tech Hub enable the exploration of strategic thinking required across UK and partner nations’ defence. They were also introduced to the role and delivery of the <a href="https://www.da.mod.uk/study-with-us/colleges-and-schools/joint-services-command-and-staff-college">Joint Service Command and Staff College</a>, and how the armed forces provide continual career development and education.

“Feedback has been incredibly positive - especially where attendees were able to handle small arms and get in a Challenger 2 main battle tank (MBT)!”

Visitors being given a talk surrounded by military equipment.

The ERS is designed primarily to recognise private sector support although public sector organisations such as the emergency services, local authorities, NHS trusts and executive agencies are also eligible to be recognised.

The scheme offers bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community with relation to employment. This can include the provision of additional leave for Reservist training, or guaranteed interviews for service leavers and their families.

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