Special recognition has been given to Wokingham Council for its efforts in supporting armed forces families and veterans.

Since 2013, they have promoted being armed forces-friendly and are open to employing reservists, armed forces veterans, cadet instructors and military spouses and partners.

It is a promise ensuring that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

Their dedication and support over the years, has awarded them the bronze award for defence employer recognition scheme this year.

Armed Forces Champion Cllr Angus Ross said: “I am delighted Wokingham Borough Council has been recognised to reach the first step to support those leaving the armed forces by receiving the bronze award.

READ MORE: Bracknell vaccine centres post walk-in appointment times

“This scheme is one of the many areas the council is working to support service personnel, armed forces veterans and their families living in Wokingham Borough. I hope the council will continue their efforts to move towards obtaining silver and gold award accreditation.”

The council has undertaken work across the borough alongside the Royal Berkshire Civilian Military Partnership Board which was set up in the spring of 2021. This is made up of leaders from across Berkshire to reinforce the positive relationships they have made throughout the years. with the armed forces.

READ MORE: Disabled man told off for calling 999

Examples of work the council has undertaken across the borough as part of its commitment to the armed forces include:

  • Delivering Adult Community Learning courses in Arborfield including courses for army wives from Nepal that combined cultural and English language learning
  • Working with Thames Valley Police to provide extensive community engagement work following the tragic murder of the wife of a Ghurka soldier in June 2013
  • Supporting the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst Business Networking Event in January 2014 which aimed to promote the benefits of employing former service men and women in local businesses
  • Holding World War One centenary commemoration events through the borough with Wokingham Town Council leading and coordinating activities including a ‘Wokingham Remembers’ Heritage Trail.'
  • Supporting the armed forces community embedded in the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy and Housing Allocation Policy

Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr Keith Baker MBE added: “This is a fantastic achievement and I am proud that the council have been presented with this award. Receiving the bronze award bolsters our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant. The council is active in employing people who have served.”