The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director (Strategy, Change and Governance) setting out the provisions of the Armed Forces Act 2021 for public bodies to have due regard to the Armed Forces Covenant.

Resolved:

1. That the Council sign the updated Southend Armed Forces Covenant with relevant pledges.

2. That the Council sign up to the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

Reasons for decision:

1. The signing of the covenant shows the Council’s commitment to the Armed Forces Community by further embedding the ‘due regard’ duty of the Act to help prevent service personnel and veterans being disadvantaged when accessing healthcare, education and housing services.

2. By joining the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme at the entry Bronze Level the Council will show its commitment to the Armed Forces Community by ensuring it follows best practice in regards to the recruitment and employment of currently serving and ex-service personnel.  As a benefit to the Council it will be more likely to be an employer of choice for members of this community, bringing with them a variety of skills and experiences.

3. Being a signatory and member of regional networks will strengthen the Council’s compliance, provide the Council with access to additional advice and resources and help align policies and communication with good practices listed in the pledges increasing the positive outcomes for the Armed Forces community.

Other options:

None.  It is a statutory requirement to be compliant with the Armed Forces Act 2021 and accompanying guidance as otherwise the Council runs the risk of a legal challenge.

Note: This is an Executive Function

Not eligible for call-in as the matter has been the subject of pre-Cabinet Scrutiny by the Policy & Resources Scrutiny Committee.

Cabinet Member: Cllr Lamb