Introduction
If you are a member of the armed forces community, a variety of support is available to you from the council and in the local area.
Flexible working
We have a number of policies and procedures in place that:
- offer flexibility for employees who would like to fit their working hours in with their volunteering
- allow for spouses to take time off during a partner’s deployment, injury, or bereavement.
These include:
- flexible working
- flexi-time
- special leave
- time off for public duties.
Armed forces reservists
If you are an armed forces reservist, our guidelines provide you and your manager with information on the procedure:
- you must follow if you receive a call-out notice and are needed for full time service, known as mobilisation
- for returning to work after military service, and the support you should receive.
Download the guidelines below:
Time off for public duties
You can take up to 10 days paid leave if you are:
- an armed forces reservist and need time off for training to keep your military skills up to date
- a cadet forces adult volunteer and need time off to participate in cadet training sessions.
If you need further time off for your public duties, this will be allowed but you will not receive pay.
Download the policy
If you are using a mobile phone or tablet and do not have the Microsoft 365 app installed, the word version of this document may not display correctly. We recommend that you download the PDF version instead.
Armed forces network
We have a number of staff networks that provide extra support and promote an inclusive and diverse workplace, including the armed forces network. This network is for any member of staff who is part of the armed forces community, to come together to share their experiences and challenges, support each other and provide feedback on initiatives relating to armed forces staff.
Armed forces champions
Armed forces champions are staff volunteers who support veterans, reservists, and military spouses or partners in the workplace.
They do this by:
- signposting to services where colleagues could get information and support
- reporting any staff needs, or issues, to the corporate policy team. These are then considered at a task group that is dedicated to improving support for armed forces community employees.
How to get in touch
Most armed forces champions are available during normal working hours (Monday to Friday, 8.30am - 5pm). You can contact them by:
- telephone
- Teams voice or video call (make sure you message them first to arrange a suitable time for your conversation).
Download the contact list below to find the armed forces champion for your directorate:
Wellbeing support
Here are some support services to help you with your wellbeing:
Employee assistance programme
Our employee assistance programme partner, Vivup, provides a counselling and advice helpline, offering confidential support on a range of emotional, personal and work-related issues.
You can also access online resources on a range of issues such as debt advice, domestic abuse resources and free advice on managing your money and reducing your utility bills with 'Ask Bill'.
Health and wellbeing support
Our council website provides help with a range of topics, such as:
- registering with a GP or dentist
- support with mental health issues
- help with physical injuries and/or if you are disabled
- alcohol and substance misuse.
Local services and support
Our corporate website provides information on a variety of local support and services. It covers topics such as:
- employment
- education and skills
- health and wellbeing
- housing
- financial advice on managing money and debts
- families, children and young people
- community and relationships.