Ryder is the first UK architectural practice to be awarded the Silver Employer Recognition for continued support to the Armed Forces
The Employer Recognition Scheme was launched in 2014 by the Prime Minister to recognise employer support for the wider principles of the Armed Forces Covenant, encompassing bronze, silver and gold awards for those that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to Defence and the Armed Forces community.
Ryder currently employs two ex service personnel, Michael Anderson and David Stabler, who have both been assisted enormously with their transition from the military environment to civilian life, including professional development, flexible learning for architectural engineering and management qualifications.
Both Michael and David discussed the significance of the covenant and how it plays an important role in the practice’s Giving campaign via the Ryder website.
As well as actively encouraging the adoption of the Armed Forces Covenant across the industry, a team of eight Ryder colleagues walked 65km in 17 hours along Hadrian’s Wall in June, raising over £800 for the Royal British Legion and Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity for bereaved Armed Forces children.
David Stabler, associate project manager at Ryder, said, “The silver award is recognition of Ryder’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and our continued investment in the Defence community. To be the first architectural firm to achieve silver is a huge achievement and one we are very proud of.”
The Rt Hon Tobias Ellwood, minister for defence personnel and veterans, MP said, “I am delighted to congratulate the recipients of this year’s Employer Recognition Scheme Silver awards. A Silver award recognises the fantastic efforts of employers throughout the UK who have both elevated their commitments under the Armed Forces Covenant and provided actual benefit to the Armed Forces Community.
“The winners should all be proud of the life changing impact and fresh opportunities they are providing to our Reservists, veterans, wounded injured and sick and their families. We’ve seen a record number of winners this year, which shows that the Armed Forces family talent pool is also providing tangible business benefit.”
Gary McLafferty, north east director engagement at Ministry of Defence, said, “Congratulations to this year’s 22 north east Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Award winners who have turned their willingness to make a difference to our Armed Forces into effective programmes of support.
“Their actions mean that our veterans, our Reservists and their families are not disadvantaged by their military service and have the same opportunities as everyone else. Their commitment is highly valued and is at the heart of all that can be achieved in every part of the country through the Armed Forces Covenant”.
The practice is keen to recruit others from the Armed Forces community by recognising transferable skills and investing in professional development.