Ministry of Defence present Edinburgh bus operator with top award

Lothian Buses was honoured to receive the prestigious Gold Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Award from the Ministry of Defence for its support of the Armed Forces community in Scotland at an awards ceremony in Edinburgh Castle on Thursday 26 October.

The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme encourages employers to support defence and inspires others to do the same. The Gold Award recognises organisations who have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and actively encourage a positive cultural environment with the demonstration of forces-friendly credentials.

Lothian employ many individuals who serve in the Reserves or are ex-Armed Forces personnel with established policies and procedures which offer support to these employees.  This includes the a Reservist Policy developed in partnership with the Lowland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets Association (Lowland RFCA) who also served as hosts of this year’s awards ceremony.

Sarah Boyd, Managing Director of Lothian Buses, said; “Lothian is incredibly proud of all of our colleagues who have served in the forces or are current Reservists.

“We are absolutely delighted to have been awarded this highest badge of honour from the Ministry of Defence.  Gold award status in The Defence Employer Recognition Scheme reflects the efforts of colleagues across Lothian who continue to work hard to make our business a supportive, inclusive and positive workplace.”

Minister for Defence People, Veterans and Service Families, Dr Andrew Murrison, said: ‘I would like to thank all the organisations that have been recognised in this year’s awards. I’m delighted that we have seen so many organisations recognised with a Gold Award. Their continued support demonstrates the unique benefits and strengths that our Armed Forces community can bring to the workplace.’