Of the 12 employers across Wales recognised for the outstanding support they give to the Armed Forces Community at the awards ceremony held at Hensol Castle on 1 December, Pro Steel Engineering’s Richard Selby was there to receive the award.
The glittering awards evening began with a drinks reception with guests treated to music provided by The Royal Air Force Salon Orchestra.
The compère for the evening was Sian Lloyd, with the welcome address given by Hannah Blythyn MS Deputy Minister for Social Partnership.
The awards were presented jointly by Rear Admiral Jude Terry OBE, Brigadier Andrew Dawes CBE, Commander 160th (Welsh) Brigade, Brigadier Jock Fraser MBE ADC Royal Marines and Air Officer Wales, Air Commodore Adrian Williams OBE.
Awarded by the Ministry of Defence, the Employer Recognition Scheme formally recognises organisations that employ and support those who serve in the Armed Forces, veterans and their families. Across the UK, 156 organisations received the Gold award this year.
To win the Gold award, organisations must provide 10 extra paid days leave for Reservists and have supportive HR policies in place for veterans, Reserves, and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, as well as spouses and partners of those serving in the Armed Forces.
Organisations must also advocate the benefits of supporting those within the Armed Forces community by encouraging others to sign the Armed Forces Covenant and engage in the Employer Recognition Scheme.
Richard Selby, director and co-founder, Pro Steel Engineering said:
We are absolutely thrilled to be one of only 156 organisations throughout the UK to achieved the highest-level award. As an organisation, we have been committed to the welfare and opportunities for veterans, their families and the wider communities for many years, and by continuing our work with RFCA for Wales, we have been able to continue enhancing policies and working practices to support the Armed Forces. From our experience, employing staff with military experience has helped to strengthen our business and we hope this award helps to encourage veterans and reservists to continue to work with us in the future.
See the full list of Employer Recognition Scheme Gold, Silver and Bronze award winners.