Higgins wins Silver MOD award for its armed forces commitment

Posted 10/08/2021

Higgins Partnerships has been awarded the prestigious silver award in The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

The three tier scheme acknowledges employers who have provided exceptional support to the armed forces community and defence by going above and beyond their covenant pledges.

Steve Leakey, Managing Director of Higgins Partnerships comments, “It is a huge honour to receive this silver award on the back of the bronze award in December 2019. We recognize the value that both reservists and veterans bring to our business and actively work with organisations such as Building Heroes, The Career Transition Partnership and VETs to encourage those leaving the Armed Forces to consider a career in the construction industry.

“With the skills shortage across the industry we will continue to work to promote opportunities and provide support to those wishing to make that transition.”

The Employers Recognition Scheme is designed primarily to recognise private sector support although public sector organisations such as the emergency services, local authorities, NHS trusts and executive agencies are also eligible to be recognised.

Leo Docherty MP, Minister for Defence People and Veterans said, “I would like to thank all the organisations who have proven their support for the Defence community during such unprecedented and challenging times.

“The vast range of those recognised this year demonstrates how employing the Armed Forces community makes a truly positive and beneficial impact for all employers, regardless of size, sector or location.”

Every year over 14,000 serving personnel leave the armed forces and there are approximately 120,000 unemployed military veterans of working age in Britain today. With an acute skills shortage in the construction industry, there are many opportunities for veterans to transfer their skills and embark on a career in the industry.