Leading Carlisle solicitors has been recognised for its work in supporting armed forces personel through discount schemes and increased job opportunities.

Wragg Mark-Bell Solicitors has been granted silver status in the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme for demonstrating a forces-friendly approach to business and a commitment to veterans and reservists.

The Carlisle firm was recognised along with four other Cumbrian businesses this year; Cumbria Chamber, Cumbria Education Trust (William Howard School), Nuclear Waste Services and James Fisher Subtech.

Nick Kennon, managing director at Wragg Mark-Bell said: “We previously held a bronze award, but wanted to take our support to the next level. 

“Our pledges under the Armed Forces Covenant include guaranteed interviews for spouses and partners of service people if they meet the job criteria, and flexible paid leave to help families of servicemen and women and reservists deal with deployments or training. 

“As a reservist myself, I’m aware just how much businesses can benefit by employing former service personnel or reservists – they come with first-class training and many transferable skills such as teamwork, problem solving, leadership and a positive can-do approach.”

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation to those who serve or who have served, and their families. Businesses who sign the covenant agree to honour this promise and look for opportunities to encourage support for reserves, employment for veterans, service personnel and their families. 

Gary Oakford, Regional Employer Engagement Director representing Defence Relationship Management at Northwest Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association, said: “I am delighted to support Wragg Mark-Bell Solicitors Covenant pledges. 

“Organisations signing the Covenant and joining the Employer Recognition Scheme recognise the value of supporting the armed forces, not just from a commercial or community perspective, but also because they see the valuable contribution of veterans, reservists and cadets to their organisation. 

“On behalf of the armed forces and the Ministry of Defence, I would like to thank Wragg Mark-Bell Solicitors for their partnership and look forward to continuing to support them.”

Public acknowledgement is also a huge morale boost to the troops and their families working hard all over the world to keep us safe and Armed Forces Day this Saturday, June 24, is the opportunity to say thank you to those past and present.

Events are happening all over the region including the Border Concert Band in Carlisle city centre from 10am and in Workington a parade from Pow Street to Vulcans Park at 11am.

Nick Kennon, Wragg Mark-Bell said: “I’d encourage businesses to consider taking part in the ERS as they can provide vital support to veterans, members of the armed forces and their families, and it’s an opportunity to give something back in return for the invaluable and courageous service they give to society.”