Fares4Free receive Gold Award

Fares4Free has been awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) in recognition of its support towards the Armed Forces Community. 

Fares4Free is a not-for-profit organisation offering free transport to veterans and their families living across Scotland, many of whom live with physical and mental health conditions. Fares4Free’s friendly and mental health First Aid trained drivers (including Reservists and CFAVs) are always on hand to give veterans the support they need.

In total 193 organisations have been recognised by the UK Government for their outstanding support towards the Armed Forces Community.

Representing the highest badge of honour, the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award identifies businesses that employ and support those who serve, veterans and their families.

Minister for Veterans and People Alistair Carns said: 

‘Our Armed Forces Community make incredible sacrifices to keep the nation safe, and it is only right that they are welcomed and valued in the workplace when they leave service. This scheme aligns with this government’s determination to renew the nation’s contract with our Armed Forces. 

‘I would like to thank the nearly 200 organisations that have been recognised with a gold award this year. Their continued support ensures that our Armed Forces Community are given opportunities needed to flourish.’

This year organisations of all sizes, from all sectors and from across the UK have been successful. In total, 33 sectors are represented, from Healthcare and Education to Recruitment and Food and Beverage.

The ERS encourages employers to support Defence and inspire others to do the same. The Gold Award is the highest accolade granted under the Scheme, reserved for businesses and organisations with the strongest commitment to supporting the military community.

To receive the award, organisations must demonstrate that they have supportive policies in place for Defence people, which includes: Reservists, Regulars, Veterans, Cadet Force Volunteers and Spouses. 

Presented by Major General Bob Bruce CBE DSO, 14 Scottish recipients received their Gold ERS Awards in the Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle on 31 October. The event was hosted by Lowland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (RFCA). The full list of local recipients is as follows:

·    Aardvark Clear Mine Limited

·    Aggreko

·    Clearwater DC Limited

·    Curtis Moore (Cladding) Limited

·    Fares4Free

·    G&S Vehicle Repair

·    Industrial Pumps and Gearboxes Limited

·    NG Homes

·    North Lanarkshire Council

·    Prolek Auto Electrical Services Limited

·    QTS

·    Respray Your Kitchen and Furniture

·    St Mirren FC Charitable Foundation

·    The Glasgow Academy

Charlie Cook, Lowland RFCA Regional Employer Engagement Director, said: 

‘Receiving the Gold ERS Award is a staggeringly impressive achievement which only comes as a result of an organisation’s hard work, commitment, and flexibility. Each of this year’s winners have demonstrated a resolute dedication to ensuring that those who have served or continue to serve in His Majesty’s Forces are treated fairly and given every opportunity to flourish. Many congratulations to this year’s recipients who are all playing their part in the Defence of the Nation.

Marie Crombie, Fares4Free Chief Executive Officer, said:

'We’re proud to receive the Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence in recognition of our commitment to Reservists and the Armed Forces Community. At Fares4Free, supporting those who serve is at the heart of what we do, and we’re grateful for the dedication and unique strengths our Reservists bring to our team every day.'