UK DOCKS’ commitment to the country’s armed forces has been recognised with a Silver Award under the Employer’s Recognition Scheme.
The scheme recognises individual company's commitments to the Armed Forces Covenant in their business practices.
The company had previously been a Bronze Award holder and has moved up to Silver Award status by attaining a higher standard within the Armed Forces Covenant and by making additional commitments.
Those include encouraging ex-service personnel, supporting and encouraging families of ex or serving personnel and committing to supporting and having a policy for Reservists.
UK Docks also actively promotes the armed forces and supporters of the armed forces such as the Cadet organisation as well as veterans' society's and charities.
The company itself has 15 ex-service personnel at its North East base and employs four people who have direct relations serving in the armed forces.
Ultimately, UK Docks’ ambition is to continue progress and to achieve a Gold Award but for the moment the company is celebrating the landmark of reaching Silver.
Stephen Lee, the company’s operations director, who led efforts to achieve Silver Award standards, said: "The North East, as a region, has long been a major supporter of the UK’s armed forces and as a North East family-owned business it is with profound gratitude and unwavering commitment that we honour the Armed Forces Covenant.
“As a company, we are proud to contribute to the armed forces through our multiple services and support contracts, including the work at our Gosport base in Portsmouth harbour, with its rich naval tradition.
“All across our bases in the country we stand united in our support of the men and women of the UK's armed forces, ensuring they receive the recognition, respect, and support they deserve.
“We appreciate that we are in a position to offer those who have served the opportunity to transition into civilian life, by giving them a workplace that is open and familiar to them in respect of their day-to-day business.
“It also helps that many of their colleagues at UK Docks will have made that same transition and can offer support when required"
The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) encourages employers to support defence and inspire others to do the same.
The scheme encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
UK Docks will be formally presented with their Silver Award at a ceremony in October.