Edinburgh urged to recognise its Reservists

As the City of Edinburgh Council’s Armed Forces and Veterans Champion, he is urging organisations across the Capital to allow Armed Forces Reservists to wear their uniforms to work on Wednesday.

Reservists make up around one sixth of the UK’s Armed Forces Personnel and give up their spare time to serve in the Reserve Forces, balancing their civilian life with a military career to ensure that should their country require them, they would be ready to serve as part of the military.

Lord Provost Frank Ross said: “As a council we are proud to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant in our own right but I’m really keen that across the city, we acknowledge the dedication, professionalism and commitment of our armed forces.

“I’m proud to support Reserves Day and hope many other Edinburgh organisations will follow suit. Reservists make an incredible contribution to their communities, their organisations and the country. Wear your uniform with pride!”

Edinburgh is home to an estimated 40,000 veterans and ex forces, 1,500 serving personnel and 500 cadets.

The Council is a silver award recognised employer under the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme and supports members of the Reservists and those wishing to join. As part of its Reserve Forces’ training and mobilisation policy, the Council acknowledges the training Reservists undertake and supports the release of all employees mobilised for Reservist duties.

Organisations and Reservists taking part in Reserves Day are encouraged to share photographs on social media of their day at work in uniform, tagging @lordprovostedin.

A consultation is also underway for anyone who might be interested in joining an Armed Forces Community Network. Take part at the Council’s Consultation Hub.