Decision details

The Service Director, Democratic Services & Communication provided Members with an overview of the Joint report which provided Cabinet with a number of options that could improve the Council’s recruitment process, so as to make it easier for the Armed Forces Community and veterans to overcome barriers to civilian employment.

Members were advised that the main proposal was the introduction of a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for Armed Forces service leavers, reservists and veterans if they meet the vacancy essential criteria.

The Deputy Leader referenced the positive track record of the Authority with working with Armed forces and spoke of the Armed Forces Covenant and gold recognition award.  The Member referenced the transferable skills veterans possessed which the Council could benefit from.  Cabinet were advised that the Armed Forces Working Group were very supportive of the proposals.

At this juncture in the meeting and with the permission of the Leader County Borough Councillor P Jarman addressed the Committee.

The Leader took the opportunity to thank the Deputy Leader for the work that she undertook in respect of Armed forces and veterans and welcomed the proposals within the report.

Following discussions, it was RESOLVED:

1.    To note and agree to the implementation of a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for service leavers, veterans and reservists.

2.    To agree that the Council works with the Career Transition Partnership, a no cost recruitment service for organisations seeking highly motivated and experienced veterans, who are leaving the Armed Forces.

3.    To agree that the Council works with Forces Families Jobs, a no cost recruitment service supporting members of the Armed Forces Community into employment.

4.    To agree to include a strap line on job advertisements welcoming applications from the ex-forces community.

The need to provide Cabinet with a number of options that could improve the Council’s recruitment process, so as to make it easier for the Armed Forces Community and veterans to overcome barriers to civilian employment.