EJ Achieve Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Award
We are very proud to announce that we have received the UK Ministry of Defence Silver Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award for making a difference to the Armed Forces Community.
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme recognises those who demonstrate or advocate support for the Armed Forces community and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant – a pledge from the nation that those who serve or who have served and their families are treated fairly.
Nigel Smith, our Managing Partner, said:
“We are privileged to be awarded with the Silver ERS award in recognition of the work that the firm has done, and continues to do, to support defence people both in terms of our staff, our clients and the wider community.”
This award comes just a year after we signed the Armed Forces Covenant and received our ERS Bronze award. Our Associate Solicitor Conor Maher, a commissioned officer in the Army Cadet Force, led the drive to gain the Silver Award. Congratulations Conor and to all our staff for their ongoing efforts to support the Forces.
“The firm has already seen the huge benefit that defence people bring to the civilian workplace, and looks forward to continue working with reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs), veterans, military spouses/partners, and the wider defence community to bring about positive change.”
Conor was commissioned as an Officer in the Army Cadet Force in 2018 and is currently an Area Staff Officer in the rank of Lieutenant, having served previously as a Non-Commissioned Officer from 2013 to 2018. In 2020, Conor was further appointed as the ACF Regional Diversity & Inclusivity Advisor to Headquarters South West.
To celebrate Armed Forces Day this year, we organised an array of events to raise money and learn more about the military for this year’s Armed Forces Day. The events included a bake sale, a Lunch & Learn hosted by Conor on the Armed Forces Covenant, a quiz night, a fun-packed ‘EJ Olympics’ sport day, and a football five-a-side, with proceeds in aid of the Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen’s Families Association (SSAFA).
Our commitment to the armed forces has also included a 100-mile Jurassic Coast trek which raised £5,500 for ABF The Soldiers Charity. We also raised money and supported charities and good causes such as SSAFA The Armed Forces Charity, Veterans with Dogs, The Bowra Foundation and a Sailing Expedition for army cadets on the historic yacht ‘Boleh’.
Other support within the firm includes an additional 10 days paid leave and flexible working for reservists and CFAVs to attend training camps and courses.
We also offer discounts across a range of service areas for reservists, CFAVs and veteran clients, including spouses.
We engage with local cadet units and is in the process of designing a mentorship programme for cadets and work with forces recruitment organisations to provide opportunities for personnel leaving the military as well as spouses and partners.
Visit our Armed Forces Covenant page to find out more about our commitment to the military and veterans.
How can we help?
When you submit this form an email will be sent to the relevant department who will contact you within 48 hours. If you require urgent advice please call 01202 525333.
