A pledge to support service veterans as they make their way in civilian life was signed by a host of employers at a jobs fair in Hereford.
Seven businesses signed the Armed Forces Covenant during the jobs fair at The Green Dragon Hotel, which was hosted by supported employment charity Landau.
Congratulations go to Bespoke Homecare, Central Roofing and Building Services Ltd, MedDX Solutions Ltd, Your Herefordshire, Waterworks Museum Hereford, and Yeleni Therapy and Support Cancer Charity.
The covenant is a pledge signed by businesses, local authorities and other organisations to acknowledge and understand that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect in communities, economy and society.
Landau chief executive Sonia Roberts said: “Hereford’s connection with the armed forces is already very strong, but I was delighted to see so many businesses strengthen their pledge to support service personnel, veterans and their families.
“Helping veterans to find suitable work and supporting them to make the transition into the civilian world is essential – employers have a big part to play in that, but those that support veterans properly can reap the rewards of a skilled and disciplined workforce.
“As a gold covenant holder ourselves, we understand the support needed by veterans and those employing them, and I would urge any prospective employers who might be unsure how to proceed to get in touch.”
The jobs fair was an opportunity for jobseekers to meet employers to find out what vacancies are on offer in Hereford. The event was attended by about 400 job seekers with 24 people securing interviews on the day.
Among the businesses attending were The Coffee Cart, Next Retail, Herefordshire Council, Balfour Beaty and Openreach.
During the event Commander Stephen Henaghen signed the Armed Forces Covenants on behalf of the Ministry of Defence and Graham Whitehouse, regional AFC employer engagement director, gave a short talk about the covenant to all of the attending businesses.