Following recent award successes, Marcus Peters, RWE Renewables UK Armed Engagement Lead and Chair of the OWIC Military Working Group, shares his thoughts on why RWE’s supportive network and policies make the employer an obvious choice for those leaving service, or involved in the Armed Forces Community.
During the summer, RWE was confirmed as one of 200 UK employers to be recognised by the Armed Forces Covenant Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award. This prestigious award, the highest available under the government backed scheme, recognises our commitment to supporting the whole Armed Forces Community, including veterans, Adult Cadet Force volunteers, reservists and their families.
Additionally, at RenewableUK’s Global Offshore Wind Awards, RWE’s Armed Forces advocacy initiatives were Highly Commended in the Energy Skills category. Such highly prized accolades mark a significant milestone in RWE’s ongoing efforts to create a workplace where the Military Community feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Recognition of RWE’s values and a comprehensive support network
More than just badges of honour, the award successes are a testament to the values we uphold at RWE – leadership, integrity, and service. We’re immensely proud of our dedication to ensuring that the unique skills, experiences, and resilience of our Armed Forces Community are not only recognised but are central to our success in the energy sector. Particularly, in granting the Gold Award, the Ministry of Defence recognises the comprehensive support we provide to those from the Armed Forces Community, from tailored recruitment initiatives to ongoing career development.
From military service to a thriving civilian career
At RWE, we understand the unique challenges that come with transitioning from military to civilian life. That’s why we have developed a career pathways system designed to help those who have left service to not just find a job but build a fulfilling career.
Our commitment to the Armed Forces Community began with the signing of the Armed Forces Covenant and has grown into a comprehensive programme that includes partnerships with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), the official resettlement service for the Armed Forces, which provides guaranteed interviews for veterans, and flexible working arrangements for reservists.
Our support continues to develop and evolve, with plans to establish a new ambassadors programme to support more Armed Forces community members joining RWE with ease.
Supporting Adult Volunteer Cadet Force, Reservists and their families
Within the ERS Gold Award, one of the key reasons for our recognition is our exceptional support for Reservists, as well as volunteers in the Adult Cadet Force and those who give time to support young people in Cadet Force organisations.
We recognise the dual commitments that these groups manage, which is why we provide additional leave for reservist duties, as well as comprehensive support during mobilisation and demobilisation phases. This ensures that our Armed Forces Community colleagues can fulfil their military obligations without compromising their civilian careers.
And our commitment doesn’t stop here. We also extend our support to the families of veterans, Cadet Force volunteers and reservists, understanding that their well-being is crucial to the success of those who serve. Our informal network of military spouses and flexible working hours are just some of the ways we help create a supportive community for all.
Building on our success
Receiving both the Gold Award and being Highly Commended in the Global Offshore Wind Awards are significant achievements, but they also challenge us to continue building a working environment that allows ex-Armed Forces members, reservists, Cadet Force Volunteers – and their families – to thrive. As we look to the future, we remain committed to expanding our support to the Armed Forces Community and offering challenging and rewarding careers.
For more information about our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant and how RWE supports the Armed Forces Community, find out more in the dedicated section on our website or contact HR professional, Jamie by email or phone on +44 7989 163505.
