An innovative supplier of safety equipment and tools has pledged to support members of the armed forces community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant.
Lichfield-based Selectequip Ltd supply a wide range of revolutionary PPE workwear, tools, LED lighting and rail products to both local and national clients. With over 25 years of experience their business has built strong relationships with key rail industry partners and leading construction companies.
The company recognises the value that service leavers, Reservists and military families can bring to businesses and currently employs two ex-service personnel in their workforce. Their commitment to support the forces community has also led to the company being awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme Bronze level award, which recognises armed forces-friendly organisations.
The covenant was signed by Managing Director, Henry Spence, and co-signed by Wing Commander Paul Bell, Officer Commanding of 605 (County of Warwick) Squadron Royal Auxiliary Air Force based at RAF Cosford.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation to ensure that those who serve or have served, and their families, are treated fairly. Businesses and charitable organisations who wish to demonstrate their support for the armed forces community can sign the covenant. In doing so, they make a range of written and publicised promises to set out their support.
Managing Director, Henry Spence, said of the signing: “It was a very proud moment for Selectequip when we signed the Armed Forces Covenant. We have worked for nearly 30 years to ensure we add value to every industry we are involved in, and our team of professionals are committed to ensuring our relationships make a difference.
“Our commitment to the military is exactly the same and the two ex-military personnel now employed in our workforce have brought with them a level of determination, professionalism and passion from their previous service which adds value to both the company as a whole and our team.
“I am looking forward to continuing with our pledge and building my company with more ex-service personnel in the years to come.”
As part of their pledge Selectequip are endeavouring to support the recruitment of armed forces veterans, and where possible, will strive to support the employment of service spouses and their partners.
The company are also actively promoting the benefits of volunteering as a member of the reserve forces to their employees, as well as providing support to members of their workforce who choose to become Reservists.
Employee Andy Pollington added: “Having served 23 years in the Adjutant General’s Corps (Staff and Personnel Support) I was a little wary of stepping outside of the Army and into civilian life.
“Finding a company that was Armed Forces friendly proved more difficult than I had originally imagined. Many companies did not understand how Military Administration was applied and how it equated to civilian practices; this proved quite frustrating initially but was not insurmountable.
“I met with my brother-in-law, Henry, after pursuing some fruitless job searches and he spoke to me about joining his company. It was quickly clear during our conversation that he understood the skills a veteran had to offer and was excited about the prospect of having me as part of his team. Now in my 5th month of employment with Selectequip Ltd I can honestly say I have never looked back. Adaptive, innovative, forward thinking but most importantly welcoming; my transition has been made easy by the team. I am very lucky to have found such a company to work for, and we will shortly be welcoming my son to the team after 9 years of his own military career.”
Siamha Butt, Regional Employer Engagement Director for the West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association said: “We are delighted that Selectequip have reinforced their support and commitment for the armed forces community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. Former service personnel have a wide range of transferable skills and by acknowledging and understanding the benefit that these can bring to businesses they have been able to continue to develop their workforce.”
For more information about signing the Armed Forces Covenant within the West Midlands region, please contact Siamha Butt at the West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association on 0121 427 5221 ext. 242 or visit www.wmrfca.org/employer-support