Port of Aberdeen receives Silver Award for commitment to Armed Forces
Port of Aberdeen has received the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for its continued commitment to support the Armed Forces Community, only two years after achieving Bronze status.
The ERS encompasses bronze, silver and gold awards for employer organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the Armed Forces Community, and align their values with the Armed Forces Covenant.
“We are honoured to have advanced from Bronze in 2023 to achieving the Silver Award this year, reaffirming our commitment to the Armed Forces community. This milestone reflects our dedication to offering meaningful employment opportunities and support to Service personnel, reservists, veterans, cadets, and military families.”
The port’s connection to the Armed Forces runs deep and we maintain close links with the Armed Forces Community. This connection is shaped by the port’s naval heritage, visiting warships, and ongoing Armed Forces Community engagement – regularly welcoming national and international Naval vessels like the recent FNS Hämeenmaa and HNLMS Johan de Witt, and has in the past hosted Naval training vessels including HMS Clyde and HMS Archer at North Harbour.
Port of Aberdeen currently employs Veterans and Cadet Force Adult Volunteers and is establishing an internal Armed Forces Network to offer a platform for colleagues to connect, share experiences, and suggest ideas for further engagement with colleagues and the wider community.
The port also plays an active role in Armed Forces related community events including crew participation in civic events and accommodating public visits to Naval vessel while in port. This includes being proud supporters of the local Sea Cadets group, TS Scylla, and working with them on a range of initiatives.
This includes hosting a group of Cadets at our Marine Operations Centre, organising a quiz night for colleagues and cadet volunteers at their base on Pocra Quay, painting their facility ahead of Tall Ships, and assisting the safe re-launch of their boats into the water at North Harbour.
The port has also embedded this commitment into its policies, with port-wide communications raising awareness of support available for the Armed Forces community.
Looking ahead, Port of Aberdeen is hosting The Tall Ships Races Aberdeen 2025, which offers a wide range of opportunities collaborate with the Highland Reserve Forces', Cadets' Association (HRFCA) and the Armed Forces community.
