The Guardian newspaper is holding its first Public Service Awards and Jobcentre Plus has been shortlisted in the Good Employer - emergency services and reservist section after it was nominated by employee Alfie Hall.
Alfie believed Jobcentre Plus deserved recognition for its progressive views on staff contribution to public services after it supported his work with the Royal Auxiliary Air Force.
Alfie works for Jobcentre Plus in Leeds, but is also a commissioned officer with the 609 West Riding Squadron, with which he has been away on training exercises and deployed to the Middle East.
Jobcentre Plus was particularly supportive when Alfie was deployed to the Middle East as part of Operation Telic in 2003. During his time there he missed out on an opportunity for promotion, yet on his return Jobcentre Plus invited him to apply for the promotion in exactly the same way as his peers had.
Alfie said ìAfter speaking with my colleagues in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force I know that I am very fortunate to have such a supportive employer. Throughout my deployment l received regular letters from Jobcentre Plus keeping me up to date with any changes which greatly eased my transition back to civilian employment.î
Mark Grimshaw, Employer Services Director for Jobcentre Plus said: ìWeíre only too happy to support our staff in leading fulfilling lives. It is also very important that all Jobcentre Plus employees are offered the same opportunities regardless of their outside commitments.î
The award is sponsored by SaBRE (Supporting Britainís Reservists and Employers), a Ministry of Defence campaign which encourages stronger links between employers and volunteer reservists.
Tim Corry, Campaign Director of SaBRE, commented: ìThe Guardian Public Service Awards are an opportunity to recognise companies that have shown exceptional support for employees who perform a crucial role through their public service volunteering. We are delighted that Jobcentre Plus has been short-listed as a result of their support for Alfie Hall and the valuable role he plays in the Volunteer Reserve Forcesî.
A panel of judges and Guardian readers will choose the winners and announce them at a ceremony on 23rd November at Londonís Victoria and Albert Museum.
Jobcentre plus nominated for national newspaper award
Jobcentre Plus has been nominated for a prestigious national newspaper award for its flexible working practices.
