Defence

Atkins receives Silver Employer Recognition Scheme award

Posted 26 November 2014

Design, engineering and project management consultancy Atkins has been recognised for its commitment to the Armed Forces community with one of the first Silver Employer Recognition Scheme awards, which it was presented with yesterday at an event held at HQ Allied Rapid Reaction Corps in Innsworth, Gloucestershire.

Above: (left to right): Geoff Robins receives the Silver Employer Recognition Scheme award on behalf of Atkins from Lieutenant General Tim Evans, Commander of the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps, at an event held at HQ Allied Rapid Reaction Corps in Innsworth, Gloucestershire.

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme awards were launched this year and include Bronze, Silver and Gold tiers. The Silver awards, which are being presented for the first time in late autumn 2014, recognise employers who demonstrate support to the Armed Forces community.

Atkins received the accolade for a number of reasons including the guidelines and policies it has in place for its Reservist staff, its support and promotion of Reservist initiatives and charitable activity, and its recent signing of the MOD’s Corporate Covenant.

This accolade brings Atkins one step closer to achieving a Gold award which, as the highest level of recognition, is reserved for companies that are considered advocates for the Armed Forces community.

Geoff Robins, managing director of Atkins’ Defence, Aerospace and Communications business said: “As an engineering consultancy, our people are our greatest asset and Atkins has long recognised the leadership, project management and technical skills that our Reservist and ex-military personnel bring to the benefit of both the company and our clients.

“Atkins is proud to have been recognised with this Silver Employer Recognition Scheme award and I am optimistic that, by continuing to deliver against the pledges we have made through our Corporate Covenant, we will be well placed to be considered for a Gold award next year.”

Julian Brazier TD MP, Minister for Reserves said: “I am delighted with the positive response to the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme awards, launched by the Prime Minister in July this year. I am very happy that Atkins were awarded theirs at a ceremony at HQ Allied Rapid Reaction Corps on 25 Nov in recognition of the high levels of commitment they have demonstrated towards Defence personnel. We look forward to recognising many more employers in the future.”