Reservists, Cadets and employees linked to the Armed Forces

We recognise the important role of the Reserve Forces and the valuable contribution that they make

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme is awarded to employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.

In 2016, Hampshire County Council proudly received the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award.

At the time, only one other Council received this prestigious Award.

Hampshire County Council was re-accredited with the Gold Award in 2021.


Reservists

We recognise the important role of the Reserve Forces and the valuable contribution that they make. We encourage and support reservist employees. We hold annual events and encourage reservists to proudly wear their uniforms to work on Uniform to Work Day.

In 2014 the County Council was chosen as one of the Cabinet Office’s Trailblazer Councils. We worked with HMS King Alfred, one of the largest naval reserve training centres in the country, to revitalise the reserve forces. The County Council helped to increase awareness of opportunities among residents, business and staff. This has led to an effective and rewarding partnership with shared communications. It helped HMS King Alfred exceed its recruitment targets.

Our pledge to reservists

Our pledge of support for reservist employees is:

  • 10 days extra paid leave each year to attend military training
  • a flexible working policy to assist with military commitments
  • management support in preparation for, during and after mobilisation
  • access to an Occupational Health service
  • access to an Employee Support, a confidential counselling service
  • eligibility for sickness absence pay in line with terms and conditions
  • eligibility for maternity, paternity and adoption leave in line with terms and conditions
  • death in service scheme
  • corporate Volunteer Reserve Forces guidance used across the organisation
  • recognition given to training and experience relevant to employment in Hampshire County Council. This is included on personal records and personal development plans
  • encourage reservists to keep in contact at a social level with friends and colleagues from their workplace during periods of mobilisation
Become a Reservist
Cadets