Osborne Clarke signs Covenant supporting Armed Forces community

Osborne Clare is pleased to announce it has signed the Armed Forces Covenant, a voluntary pledge to ensure that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly.

The Covenant helps to ensure the UK Armed Forces community are given the respect, support and fair treatment they deserve in all aspects of life, including education, family life and starting a new career.

"By signing the Armed Forces Covenant, we recognise the value of those who serve and have served our Country and their families, and show our support for the Armed Forces community. It's part of our broader commitment in ensuring we are a truly inclusive organisation for all our people", said Tim Simmonds, Chief Operating Officer at Osborne Clarke and Armed Forces Veteran.

"We recognise the unique skillset that the Armed Forces community can bring to a business. We want to work with this diverse talent pool and empower these highly-skilled individuals to use their experience and fresh perspective to strengthen the firm, delivering the best for our people and our clients."

The firm commits to upholding the key principles of the Covenant, which are that: members of the Armed Forces community should face no disadvantage in the provision of public and commercial services compared to other citizens and that in some circumstances special treatment may be appropriate especially for the injured or bereaved.

Under the Covenant, Osborne Clarke will also support all employees who choose to be members of the Reserve forces.

Gemma Rowland, People Development Manager at Osborne Clarke and Armed Forces Veteran, said, "One of the greatest lessons I learned serving in the military was; 'No plan ever survives first contact'. This means you have to be prepared to adapt, you have to be able to think under pressure and make decisions, sometimes with only limited information available.

"As an officer and a leader, it was my responsibility to make the decision and own the risk. It's these skills that allow me to approach problems with a different perspective, stay calm when problems arise and be willing to push the boundaries to find innovative solutions. They enable me to contribute to the firm's dynamic environment, where agility, innovation, and strategic thinking are paramount to delivering exceptional service to our clients."

The signing ceremony took place at Osborne Clarke's Bristol office on 6 June. Attendees included Emily Kadoch, Employer Engagement Director, Wessex Reserve Forces & Cadets Association and

Commander Steven Henaghen, Chief of Staff and Deputy Naval Regional Commander, as well as Osborne Clarke senior leaders, and Armed Forces personnel.

Being a responsible and ethical business and employer underpins Osborne Clarke's business strategy. Osborne Clarke For Good is the firm's way of ensuring it is a good corporate citizen, a good employer and a good business.