J Tomlinson is thrilled to have been recognised by The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme as a Silver award-winning organisation.

The announcement comes just 17 months after the company pledged its support to the armed forces community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant in March 2017.

The covenant represents a promise by the nation that those who serve – or have served – and their families are treated fairly both economically and socially. The scheme provides support across a number of areas, including education, housing, careers, healthcare, and finance.

Almost 2800 charities, local authorities, and organisations across the UK have signed the covenant, nearly 300 of which are situated in the East Midlands.

The coveted silver award is presented to employers whom have demonstrated a commitment to the recruitment and support of the armed forces community/service personnel. One such employee is Richard Ball, J Tomlinson’s Head of Health, Safety, Environmental and Quality, who was recruited by the company in 2016 and carries 22 years’ military experience under his belt.

Richard commented: “Since joining J Tomlinson Ltd I have found that there is a lot of similarities to the military life I left behind over five years ago; the work hard/play hard mentality and team work ethos is at the heart of everything J Tomlinson does. After spending 22 years working within military organisations such as the Royal Engineers, it is comforting to know I have joined a company who also understands that all goals can be achieved using a safe, realistic and practical approach.

“I find personal development and challenge rewarding, it’s great to be part of a company that places a focus on not only legal competence but also ensures personnel are developed to support progression for all those who want to grow with the business.”

J Tomlinson CEO Mark Davis added: “We are proud to have been recognised as a Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award winner.

“We continue to employ and support individuals who have come from the Armed Forces as well as strengthening our current workforce by attending the MOD future leadership programmes. There are several parallels between J Tomlinson and the Armed Forces with regards to our daily challenges, our values and strong team ethos. Employees who have come from an Armed Forces background have brought a depth of discipline and a broad range of knowledge to our business, both of which have been crucial in supporting our continued growth and expansion.

“We are delighted to have received this acknowledgement and look forward to continuing our commitment to supporting the Armed Forces.”

The awards ceremony will take place on the evening of 15^th November at Beaumanor Hall, Leicestershire, where J Tomlinson will join other employers across the country in formally receiving an ERS Silver Award framed certificate.

Commenting on the announcement of the 2018 Employer Recognition Scheme Silver awards, Minister for Defence Personnel and Veterans, the Rt Hon Tobias Ellwood MP, said:

“I am delighted to congratulate the recipients of this year’s Employer Recognition Scheme Silver awards. A silver award recognises the fantastic efforts of employers throughout the UK who have both elevated their commitments under the Armed Forces Covenant and provided actual benefit to the Armed Forces Community. The winners should all be proud of the life-changing impact and fresh opportunities they are providing to our Reservists, veterans, wounded, injured and sick, and their families. We’ve seen a record number of winners this year, which shows that the Armed Forces family talent pool is also providing tangible business benefit.”

To find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant and how you can pledge your support, visit www.armedforcescoventant.gov.uk