Cumbria’s fire service and police force have been recognised for their commitment to the armed forces community.
Both organisations have received prestigious silver status in the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, which recognises employers who align their values to the Armed Forces Covenant and champion those who have served.
The covenant recognises the value of serving personnel, veterans, Reserve Forces and military families and promises to ensure those that serve or have served, and their families, will be treated fairly.
Written into law, the covenant states that armed forces personnel, veterans or their families will not be disadvantaged by their military life.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service said it adopts a number of measures to support the defence and armed forces community, including a Veterans Guaranteed Interview Scheme and an internal support network.
The organisations were among 47 recipients of silver awards announced across the North West this week.
Brian Massie, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service’s Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said: “We are proud to have our commitment to the defence and armed forces community recognised with this accolade from the Ministry of Defence.
“Historically and up to the present day, the military and the fire service have always had a fundamental bond, and serving personnel, reservists and veterans bring tremendous value to our service.
“We will continue to do all we can to ensure Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service is a forces friendly employer.”
Deputy Chief Constable Darren Martland, of Cumbria Constabulary, said: “It is fantastic news to receive this silver award which recognises our ongoing commitment to supporting former, and serving, services personnel.
“The sacrifices that those in the armed forces, and their families, have made and continue to make is highly commendable.
“We will continue to do all we can to ensure the armed forces community are treated with fairness and respect in society and the workplace.”
