University awarded for support to the Armed Forces
Cardiff Metropolitan University has received a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for 2023, recognising the University’s support to the Armed Forces community.
Under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, the Silver Award is for employers who have actively demonstrated their support for the Armed Forces community through implementing practical policies in the workplace.
17 organisations from across Wales were recognised at the annual event held at HMS CAMBRIA, Cardiff on Thursday 28 September.
Professor Cara Aitchison, Vice Chancellor of Cardiff Metropolitan University, said: “On behalf of our Cardiff Met community, I’m delighted to receive this award which ties in so well with our values, purpose and priorities. The University recognises the value of supporting the Armed Forces, including serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families and the wide range of skills and experience they bring to our community.”
To achieve the Silver ERS Award, organisations must proactively demonstrate that the Armed Forces community are not unfairly disadvantaged as part of its recruitment policies. The employer must also actively ensure its workforce is aware of the positive policies towards Defence people, issues for Reservists, Veterans, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.
Cardiff Metropolitan University signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2021 – the commitment to honour and support the Armed Forces community.
Mr Craig Middle, the Ministry of Defence’s Regional Employer Engagement Director South said “We are delighted that so many employers in Wales have been recognised with the Silver Award.”
Cardiff Met is also a registered learning provider with the Ministry of Defence’s ELCAS scheme , which is for armed forces personnel wishing to study a university course. This scheme provides financial support to armed forces personnel, both serving and service leavers, to study a course at university, which is of direct benefit to the service and which leads to personal and professional development.