The Regional Employer Engagement Director for East Anglia Jo Horn gave a presentation about the Armed Forces Covenant during an engagement evening held at the Army Reserve Centre at Brentwood in Essex on 13th June 2023
Army Reservists from 124 Transport Squadron, 151 Regiment RLC hosted over seventy employers, dignitaries, and special guests to raise awareness of the work they do at the Army Reserve Centre. The buildings and grounds are maintained by East Anglia RFCA Estates team, providing a fit-for-purpose training environment for reservists in the Brentwood area.
The reservists talked with guests about their skills and equipment. Outside displays showcasing advanced weapon systems, modern logistic vehicles, the latest personal equipment, and a demonstration by physical training instructors on the new fitness tests all served to bring the Reserve Forces experience to life for the visitors. A curry supper prepared and served by Army Chefs helped illustrate the range of roles available in the Reserve Forces.
Officer commanding 124 Transport Squadron Major Paul Herlihy said: “We are honoured to welcome employers, organisations and members of the community that support the Armed Forces Covenant. Being visited by so many who acknowledge, understand and pledge to support those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families has been a real morale booster for the Squadron”.
Permanent Staff Administration Officer Captain Nick Allston said: “The strong bond and shared values the squadron has built with employers and the local community is strengthened through engagement events like this. It is encouraging to know that the contribution our Reservists make to our Armed Forces and the Nation is recognised.”
Jo Horn and the other members of the Employer Engagement team in East Anglia are a local point of call for reservists’ employers on behalf of Defence Relationship Management for the Ministry of Defence. She and her team works closely with organisations who wish to deepen their relationship with the military and steer them in the right direction. Support includes providing information on legal rights and responsibilities as an employer, reserves’ and adult volunteers’ training commitments and how they can affect employers, and guidance on how to recognise and make the most of the benefits of employing a reservist.