We are delighted to announce that our company has been awarded the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award by the UK Government. This honour places us among an elite group of organisations nationwide that have received this accolade for outstanding support of the Armed Forces community.
The award will be officially presented to us at a ceremony held at HMS Cambria in Cardiff on September 26, 2024. This accolade is the highest badge of honour given to organisations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to supporting defence personnel and inspiring others to do the same.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award acknowledges the vital role that employers like us play in supporting the Armed Forces community. This year’s award recipients include organisations from across 33 different sectors, ranging from healthcare and education to recruitment and food and beverage. Prominent household names such as Expedia.com, Google, and B&Q were also recognised.
To achieve gold status, organisations must demonstrate a sustained and robust commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, actively engaging with peers and encouraging the employment of armed forces personnel, veterans, and their families. They must also implement human resources policies that accommodate the unique needs of the Armed Forces community while continuously promoting this advocacy within their networks and industry.
Our company’s founder, Ian Williams, is a former Welsh Guardsman who served for nearly a decade. Upon transitioning back to civilian life, Ian recognised the unique skills and work ethic that former military personnel bring to various industries, particularly in commercial and industrial cleaning. This insight led to the establishment of Regimental Cleaning Services, which now serves our clients across South Wales.
A significant percentage of our workforce comprises former military personnel, ensuring that our operations reflect the high standards and ethos ingrained in military service. We also collaborate with local training providers who specialise in helping former forces personnel transition smoothly into civilian careers. We are also committed to supporting military charities such as SSAFA and ABF The Soldiers’ Charity through fundraising efforts and employment opportunities.
Ian Williams, our Founder, said:
“We are incredibly honoured to receive the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award. As a company founded on military values, we understand the importance of supporting our Armed Forces community. This award is a testament to our commitment to providing opportunities for veterans and their families and ensuring that their transition to civilian life is as smooth as possible.”
Speaking on the award, Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns, said:
“Our Armed Forces Community make incredible sacrifices to keep the nation safe, and it is only right that they are welcomed and valued in the workplace. This scheme aligns with this government’s determination to renew the nation’s contract with our Armed Forces. I would like to thank the nearly 200 organisations that have been recognised with a gold award this year. Their continued support ensures that our Armed Forces Community are given opportunities needed to flourish.”