A year ago on Friday (05 March 2020), The Forshaw Group was the proud recipient of the Armed Forces Covenant Bronze Award.
We were one of 12 organisations from across the North West to be awarded under the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS). This is a nationally recognised scheme encouraging all employers to support the defence services’ military leavers with careers, and inspire others to do the same.
Our managing director, Liam Hanlon, attended the ceremony. The awards were hosted by Commodore Phil Waterhouse ADC, Naval Commander for Northern England and the Isle of Man, on board the new Royal Navy Aircraft Carrier HMS Prince of Wales, docked in Liverpool.
Speaking at the event, Jan Cox, Regional Employer Engagement Director at the North West of England and the Isle of Man Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (NW RFCA), said: “On behalf of the Ministry of Defence, we are honoured to be able to recognise the level of support and commitment given to the Armed Forces by organisations in the region.
“Each recipient has demonstrated not only that they value the ethos of the Armed Forces but also that they are prepared to help Reservists, former servicemen and women and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers in the workplace. The opportunity to present their awards today on board the awe-inspiring HMS Prince of Wales has been remarkable.”
Following the award presentations, the recipients all received a bespoke tour of the hugely impressive Royal Naval carrier. The HMS Prince of Wales had arrived in the city on the 28 February 2020 for a week-long visit, packed with celebrations and engagement with the local community.
Nearly a year on, and despite the pandemic, we continue to provide our support to the Armed Forces community. Our ongoing commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant includes new opportunities for training and apprenticeships, utilising veteran’s existing skills and adapting them for their new careers in the restoration and repair sector.
