What you need to know as an employer of a Reservist

Why should I hire and support a Reservist?

 
Training and serving in the Volunteer Reserve Forces enables people to develop skills – both core and specialist - and qualities that can be transferred directly to your workplace. They learn skills that many organisations do not have money or time to provide.
 
The average Reservist receives training in skills that can be transferred to the civilian workplace and would cost you, as an employer, over £9,000 per year to provide. In contrast, the average employee receives only £822 worth of training per year.

Much of the training provided by the Services is nationally recognised. You may be able to integrate it with your own staff development programmes for qualifications such as NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), SCOTVEC (Scottish Vocational Education Council) and City and Guilds. For example, Reservists may extend their driving licences to include heavy goods vehicles or motorcycles.

Downloads and links 
 

Human resources policy template that supportive employers of Reservists can use to supplement their existing HR policies and procedures.
 
 
If your small business already employs reservists, you can use this simple form to add your name to the growing list of supportive employers. 
 

What is a Reservist's training commitment?
 
Although an individual's training liability varies between the different elements of the Reserve Forces, for most Reservists the liability is made up of three forms of training:
  • Weekly training - normally takes place in the evening
  • Weekend training - all Reservists are expected to attend a number of training weekends, which are spread throughout the year.
  • Continuous training period - once a year, there is a 15-day continuous training period.
Your understanding and co-operation as an employer is essential if Reservists are to benefit fully from their training opportunities. This is particularly the case with the continuous training period, which can represent a significant proportion of an employee's holiday entitlement.
 
You are under no obligation to grant any request by a Reservist employee for additional paid or unpaid leave; however, many employers realise that the valuable, transferable skills gained in training will benefit their business, and grant extra leave, paid or unpaid, for the continuous training period.

Does a Reservist have any obligations to me, as his or her employer?

Absolutely. Any reservist you employ should agree to do the following:

  • Identify themselves as a Reservist
  • Find out about your policies
  • Ask you for training leave
  • Inform you if they are mobilised

About the author

SaBRE (Supporting Britain's Reservists & Employers) is a national campaign set up by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to enhance the relationship between employers and Reservists.
 
If you would like more information about the benefits, rights and obligations associated with employing a Reservist contact SaBRE on 0800 389 5459 or at www.sabre.mod.uk.