Employers see Royal Navy Reservists in action

February 15, 2024
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Highland RFCA invited a group employers to HMS SCOTIA to see first-hand the valuable work of Royal Navy Reservists.

The Rosyth event opened with the employers being addressed by the Commander of the Maritime Reserves, Commodore Jo Adey ADC. Commodore Adey highlighted the value to employers of having members of the Reserve forces as part of their organisations.

The employers then visited a variety of stances that showcased some of the core skills needed by sailors.

Airsoft Range.
The Airsoft Weapons Stance.

In turn they visited the Firefighting Stance, the Sea Survival Stance and, finally, they had a great deal of fun handling and using weapons at the Airsoft Weapons Stance.

Following the whirlwind introduction into life in the Maritime Reserves, the employers were treated to a hot buffet in the HMS SCOTIA wardroom. This gave the employers a chance to build valuable connections while networking over supper.

Royal Navy Reservists
Royal Navy Reservists with survival and firefighting equipment.

Among the organisations attending as guests of HRFCA were: Briggs Marine; Clackmannanshire Council; Eclipse; Fife Sports and Leisure Trust; Forth Valley College; Knights Templar Goodwill Charity of Scotland; Raeburn Training; Stirling Council; Gogar Services Limited; and the Scottish Ambulance Service.

All of those companies have signed the Armed Forces Covenant: a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated fairly. Many of the companies hold Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Awards at Bronze, Silver or Gold level.

Firefighting.
Firefighting is a skill taught to all members of the Royal Navy, both Regular and Reserve.

There were also a wide range of organisations invited by the Royal Navy. These covered a variety of employment sectors including: transport and infrastructure; education; Defence; healthcare; and financial services.

Trying out some survival equipment.
Trying out survival equipment.
Airsoft weapons.
A range of weapons at the Airsoft Stance.
Visitors at HMS SCOTIA.
The HMS SCOTIA visitors had the opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the Maritime Reserves.