A major north-east employer has signed a deal with the Ministry of Defence which could secure new jobs in the army.
Score Group plc has become one of the first employers in Aberdeenshire to sign up to the Armed Forces Covenant which will encourage service in the reserves.
Last night, the Peterhead-based firm said the demand from Score employees to participate was “significant”.
The Covenant was signed by chairman Charles Ritchie and countersigned by Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Mackenzie of the 51st Infantry Brigade and Headquarters Scotland.
Mr Mackenzie said: “In signing the Armed Forces Covenant, Score has not only expressed its support for the defence of the nation, it has recognised the benefits of the training to build confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving its employees will get if they join the reserves or cadets.
“I am sure this strategic partnership will help us increase our profile in the Peterhead area and bring more opportunities to the area.”
A series of taster sessions are now planned to provide interested staff with experience of the type of tasks and team building exercises involved in the training and development of enlisted reserves.
It is hoped the programme will lead to increased military resources and opportunities being available to people in the Peterhead area.
Score employees said there were particular benefits in joining the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, which would provide training which complement and reinforce the company’s technical training programme.
Conrad Ritchie, the company’s managing director, said: “We will support any staff member volunteering with the armed forces reserves and will be flexible regarding these commitments.
“We welcome the additional opportunities and experiences this project can bring to our employees, all of which will help them grow. We are proud of their positive reaction.”
Score is currently backing a massive new medical centre in the Buchan village of Crimond.
The £1.5million centre, which will boast a cafe and fitness suite, is due to open in the spring.