The force has renewed its pledge to support military personnel past and present by signing the Armed Forces Covenant.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or have previously served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly.
The force, which currently employs 12 Reservists, signed the Covenant today (Wednesday 10 November) at an event held at police headquarters in Enderby, Leicestershire.
The Chief Constable, Simon Cole, signed the pledge alongside Bruce Spencer from East Midlands Reserve Forces and Cadets Association.
Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews was also present.
Within the Covenant the force pledged to:
visibly demonstrate that it is an Armed Forces friendly organisation,
support the employment of veterans and work with the career Transition Partnership (CTP) to establish a tailored employment pathway for service leavers,
be flexible in granting leave for service spouses and partners before, during and after a partner’s deployment,
support employees who choose to be members of the Reserve Forces, including accommodating their training and deployment where possible,
support employees who are volunteer leaders in Ministry of Defence sponsored cadet organisations,
participate actively in Armed Forces Day.
Chief Constable Simon Cole, said: “The relationship between the police and Armed Services has always been strong and we are proud to have a number of Reservists among our officers and staff. The Covenant symbolises the force’s commitment to this relationship.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Rupert Matthews, said: “Leicestershire Police has always prided itself on offering veterans the opportunity to continue to serve. Their decency, kindness of spirit and sense of public duty is invaluable to Leicestershire Police and an inspiration to us all.
Leicestershire Police will always support and welcome members of our Armed Forces, and The Covenant is a testament to that.”
Bruce Spencer, Regional Employer Engagement Director, added: “We are delighted that Leicestershire Police have re-affirmed their commitment to the Armed Forces community by re-signing the Covenant. It is vital that our Reserves,
veterans and military families are supported in this way, and it sends a strong message to the local community when organisations such as the police force promote the Armed Forces Covenant.”