We have become the first law firm in Wales to receive a Gold Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Award for our work supporting the Armed Forces community.
We received the prestigious award from the MoD’s Regional Command – the Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association for Wales, today.
The award is the MoD’s highest badge of honour for employers, and only presented to exemplar organisations that demonstrate a far-reaching commitment to veterans, their families and those currently serving. Gold award holders are recognised for their proactive forces-friendly policies, their work in helping leavers transition from the military into civilian careers – and for their wider partnership working and advocacy.
Hugh James has supported the armed forces community in a variety of ways for many years – not just with the legal and financial advice we provide, but as a forces-friendly employer and active contributor to local communities and associated military initiatives.
In March 2020, we proudly signed the Armed Forces Covenant, pledging our support to the military community and committing to uphold the key principles of the Covenant in its business dealings. Then, in September 2020 we became the first law firm in Wales to be given a Silver Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Award.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a public pledge to acknowledge and understand that those in the armed forces, as well as veterans, and families, should be treated with fairness and respect in the communities, economy, and society where they serve.
Hugh James works in partnership with military specialists and charities throughout the year and engages in an ongoing series of educational, fundraising and sponsorship activities. The firm sponsors the annual Veterans Awards and, during Armed Forces Week, worked in partnership with The Wave Radio to deliver the Forces of Change veterans network event at the Swansea.com stadium.
Partner at Hugh James, and Head of the Military department, Simon Ellis, said:
“Receiving the Ministry of Defence, Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, is something we will hold very dear. At Hugh James, we’re passionate about doing all we can to assist service personnel, veterans, and their families. Our Armed Forces community is deserving of significant support and our commitment is stronger than ever.”
