The UK Government Perspective on Employer Support to Reserve Forces 1 August 2013 Major General John Crackett TD Assistant Chief of Defence Staff Reserves and Cadets GBR Ministry of Defence

Contents How did we get here? What does the UK want from Reserves? What is the deal for Reservists? What do employers think? What is the deal for employers? Conclusion

UK Reserves

Size of the Reserve

Reservists Mobilised

Regular Reductions

Reserve Expansion

Pulled in three directions FamilyMilitary Employer

Employers

Good News from Employers Use reservists more (50%) Engage us better (62%) Reservists bring value and benefits (70%) But: How do we use them? Costs outweigh benefits

Bad News from Employers  Knew little about Reserves  Did not know they employed reservists  Defence does not understand impact of mobilisation  Want: – better management of relationship – more notice – more flexibility  Anti-discrimination legislation not effective

I have been disadvantaged at work

Better Balance the Proposition Easier financial claims £500 per month for small companies Accredit military skills and experience to recognised civilian qualifications Public recognition of supportive employers

Develop New Relationships Improved information on-line Ensure employers know their reservists Advance notice of annual training Longer notice of mobilisation or a period of high-readiness Feedback after mobilisation National Relationship Management Scheme

Legislation

Reaction from employers “Future Forces 2020 will significantly increase the number of reservists in the workforce and require an additional commitment from businesses. We’re pleased the MoD has listened to businesses’ concerns, in particular the need to work in partnership with firms rather than taking a purely legalistic approach, to minimise any potential disruption. We particularly welcome the plans for improved communications and the additional financial support to smaller businesses announced in the White Paper. Alerting businesses earlier about mobilisation will make things easier and a single point of contact for employers is a real step forward. But the Government must work hard with businesses and ensure the transition to this new approach is as smooth as possible.” Dr Neil Bentley, CBI Deputy Director-General

Additional Information Future Reserves 2020 (FR20) White Paper and the Consultation Outcome : consultation Supporting Britain’s Reservists and Employers (SaBRE):