Northern praised for 'outstanding commitment' to supporting people who have served in the military

Northern, which run services through Ilkeston Railway Station as well as regionally, has been praised for its “outstanding commitment” to supporting people who have served in the Armed Forces.

The train operator employs hundreds of people who have previously worked in the military or currently serve as reservists, putting their skills and experience to use in a wide range of roles.

To recognise its commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community, The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has presented Northern with the Gold Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award.

In a letter, the MoD said the operator offers a “home away from home” to those transitioning into civilian careers, working to ensure they become valued members of staff.

It said Northern has strong ties with the Armed Forces and has been actively involved in recruiting events at military bases including Catterick Garrison.

The operator was also recognised for managing and protecting significant war memorials across the North of England, including the First World War memorial that was recently relocated from Newton Heath TrainCare Centre to Bury Transport Museum. 

Northern received the award three years after it signed the MoD's Armed Forces Covenant – a commitment to supporting the employment of veterans and recognising military skills and qualifications.

Since then it has encouraged a number of its suppliers, including CAF Rail UK, to sign up.

Tricia Williams, Northern’s managing director, said she is delighted the operator has been presented with the Gold Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Award: “People who have served in the military have so much to offer and that’s why we encourage them to consider joining the railway and becoming part of another close-knit team,” she said.

“Speaking to staff who have served in the Armed Forces or as a reservist, I am always impressed by their work ethic, discipline and determination to get the job done.

“We know leaving the military and starting a new career as a civilian can be difficult, but we are here to help them make that adjustment.”

Paddy Hodgson is chair of Northern’s Armed Forces Group, which connects and supports staff who have previously served in the military. He said he is "immensely proud of this achievement" as it "demonstrates our collective mission to uphold and honour our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant".

He added: “I would like to thank everyone involved for their hard work and dedication as this has been a real team effort across the business. 

"Collaborative support between the Armed Forces Group committee, its champions and volunteers, and the director group has made this fantastic achievement possible.”