Minster Group awarded for supporting Armed Forces community

Minster Group has achieved an MoD Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award from the Armed Forces Covenant.

Minster Group, which includes Minster Surfacing and Alliance Recycling, has been recognised as a business that shows support towards the Armed Forces community in the world of work.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve, or who have served, in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

The Employer Recognition Scheme was launched in 2014 to reward employers who support Defence People objectives and encourage others to exhibit the same behaviours. The scheme encompasses Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to Defence and the Armed Forces Community.

In order to achieve the Silver Award, Minster met the requirements of having signed the Armed Forces Covenant, is employing at least one member of the Armed Forces community, and supports any staff through their Reserve or Cadet Force Adult Volunteer training responsibilities.

James Allibone, Foreman at Minster, is a former paratrooper who joined the team three years ago. Managing Director of Minster Group, Bruce Spencer-Knott said:

“James came to Minster shortly after leaving the Armed Forces and he’s a brilliant addition to our team. James approached us having spent some time working with another construction firm and wanting to progress his career with in a more professional environment. Three years on, James is a leader of the team and he’s a real asset.

“Being based in “Bomber County” Lincolnshire, we know how important it is that companies look after service personnel when they return from active duty. We believe that employing ex-Forces personnel is great for business because they have a variety of transferable skills and qualities to offer the civilian workplace, developed throughout their military careers. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into any sector and we’re proud to have been recognised for the support we offer them.”

Minster is one of just 23 public and private sector organisations in the East Midlands to be recognised and, this year, more organisations than ever before have earned the Silver Award.

Minister for Defence People and Veterans, Johnny Mercer, said:

“Veterans make a huge contribution to businesses across the country and it’s fantastic to see a record-breaking number of organisations recognised for their support. We’re working closely with businesses to help them further understand the huge value that veterans, reservists and military spouses can bring to their organisations.”

Minster regularly works on behalf of Lincolnshire County Council, which has also been awarded for its participation in the scheme. Both organisations will attend a formal presentation evening on 21st November to be officially presented with the award.

For more information about Minster Group, please visit their website or email generalenquiries@minstersurfacing.com.

To find out more about the Employer Recognition Scheme and the Armed Forces Covenant, visit https://www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk.