Employers across the UK are invited to take part in a survey on their views on the future uses of the Reserve Forces.
The survey (now closed) has been set up by SaBRE (Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers) for the Ministry of Defence and the results due to be published in February.
The results of the survey will feed into the MOD’s review of the recommendations outlined in the Future Reserves 2020 (FR20) report, which was a comprehensive study on how best the Reserve Forces should be used in the future.
The survey will gauge employer’s views on a number of initiatives that have been proposed in the FR20 report such as:
- Reservists being used more for UK operations and homeland security
- Additional legislation to prevent employer discrimination against Reservists
- Increasing the use of the civilian skills of the Reservists in areas such as civil engineering or cyber expertise
- The possibility of shorter but more frequent mobilisations of Reservists for UK operations and events and/or for their civilian skills
The following organisations are supporting this consultation with employers: the Confederation of British Industry, Institute of Directors, Federation of Small Businesses, British Chambers of Commerce and Forum of Private Business.
This survey is part of a wider research programme with employers on FR20, which includes an initial online survey in early 2011 when original research was carried out as part of the initial FR20 consultation with employers, as well as current employer focus groups and interviews throughout the UK.
Employer support is vital for Reservists to balance their civilian and military roles in society successfully. The results of this survey and the other research SaBRE is conducting on employers’ views will be hugely beneficial to the government as they make their plans for the future.
The government recognises that employer support will be crucial in making the changes of the Reserve Forces a success. We therefore ask all those who are responsible for their organisations’ HR policy and decision making in UK organisations to take part in the survey and make sure your views are heard."
Tim Corry, SaBRE Campaign Director
For further information on how the FR20 recommendations may affect employers or about employing a Reservist please contact SaBRE.