The Government’s Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) has given Sefton-based Sovini Group the Gold Award, their highest honour, in recognition for the Group’s outstanding support of the Armed Forces community.
The Sovini Group is the first housing group in the country to be awarded Gold since the scheme’s inception in 2014. The accolade follows their Bronze Award win in 2016 and the Silver Award in 2017.
The ERS recognises employers who actively support Reservists, Service leavers, wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, the Cadet organisations and service families, as well as inspire other organisations to follow their lead.
The property management and development group has long standing relationships with the Armed Forces community. They work in close partnership with Army Reserve unit 156 Regiment RLC and local organisations, Liverpool’s Veterans HQ and Veterans in Sefton, providing ex-service personnel with housing, training and employment opportunities.
Pictured above: The Sovini Group completes welfare facilities for wounded military personnel in Altcar Training Camp.
A recent initiative between The Sovini Group with Veterans HQ has led to six local veteran families being rehomed and saved from homelessness since the start of 2018.
The company offers a volunteer placement programme, which supports veterans with their transition from the Armed Forces into employment within civilian life. Some of those who took part in the programme have gone on to get jobs within the Group, such as at Sovini Trade Supplies in Aintree.
The Sovini Group also employ a number of Reservists and provides tailored support including an additional 10 days leave for training and unlimited unpaid leave if they are mobilised.
Dr Roy Williams, CEO of The Sovini Group said: “It’s an honour to be the first housing group to achieve the Gold Award. By adopting the Armed Forces Covenant we help to make sure the people who make huge sacrifices on our behalf receive the recognition and support they deserve in the workplace and the wider community.”
Private Tracy Newman, Customer Empowerment Officer, The Sovini Group added: “The Sovini Group has been fantastic from the very beginning supporting me in my Army Reserves journey. The flexibility they have given me has been invaluable. When I talk to other Sovini staff during Armed Forces partnership events I see real interest from colleagues and going forward I hope to encourage more staff to get involved.”
Tobias Ellwood, The Minister for Defence People and Veterans commented: “The breadth and diversity of this year’s winners shows how business support for the Armed Forces continues to flourish. Their commitment is a testament to the fantastic contribution our serving personnel, veterans and their families can make to any organisation. We all have a role to play in ensuring that the Armed Forces community is not disadvantaged by service, and each of these employers is a setting an example as meaningful advocates for those protecting the nation.”
