United Utilities was one of the first companies to be awarded Gold in the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme in 2016, and was reaccredited in August 2021. The company has a dedicated internal Armed Forces Network, which is a community that supports employees who are Reservists, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, veterans, spouses, and anyone who has a link to this community. The United Utilities Armed Forces Ambassador won an inspiration award in 2019 for the work done for the Armed Forces Network supporting defence people issues, including Armed Forces Day and Reserves Day.
Reservists and volunteers can take 10 days’ paid leave for their training, and recruitment into the Reserves is promoted among graduates, apprentices and those who are not in education, employment or training (NEETs), as well as through company-wide recruitment drives and awareness sessions
The Civilian Work Attachments (CWA) programme allows service leavers to understand and address any skills gaps they have and get exposure to civilian work opportunities. It has many examples of success, including:
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An ex-Lance Corporal Mechanical Engineer who completed a work placement at Davyhulme Wastewater Treatment Works as a Mechanical Engineer and now works for United Utilities as a Customer Support Technician on the water and wastewater network.
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An ex-Army Lance Corporal REME who completed two weeks’ work placement with the Fleet Management team and has now secured a permanent role in Security Operations.
Julie Newton, Head of Organisation Development at United Utilities, said: “As a large employer and FTSE 100 company based in the North West, we’re proud to support our region’s Armed Forces personnel and veterans.
“People with a services background can bring a wealth of valuable skills and experience to our company, from having a great eye to detail and meticulous planning, to working as a team and remaining calm in a crisis.”
Rich Waggitt, Armed Forces Network Chair, added: “Retaining Gold status in the MoD’s Employer Recognition Scheme and signing the Armed Forces Covenant demonstrate our commitment to being a forces friendly employer and are testament to our inclusive work culture and targeted support for armed forces personnel, past and present.”
To find out more about working for United Utilities and see current vacancies, visit: www.unitedutilities.com/corporate/careers/