Hovertravel has formally declared to ensure those who serve, or who have served in the armed forces, and their families are treated fairly, becoming the 1000th signatory in the South East to the Armed Forces Covenant.
Neil Chapman, managing director of Hovertravel, explains: “With Portsmouth Naval Base being one of our closest neighbours we operate in the same waters as the British Navy and work alongside the Queen’s Harbour Master who oversees our marine environment. Hovertravel has historically employed ex-service personnel and is proud to include team members with military backgrounds in its current workforce.
By signing the Armed Forces Covenant we are making a public pledge and highlighting that we are forces-friendly. We are also very keen to encourage other organisations to sign the covenant and we will be looking to increase the number of signatories on the Isle of Wight above the current total of just 11.”
Hovertravel recognises the value serving personnel, reservists, veterans, and military families bring to its business and in signing the document, has committed to uphold the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant. This includes supporting the employment of service leavers, reservists and veterans as well as providing flexible leave for service spouses and partners before, during, and after deployments.
Commodore JJ Bailey ADC, said: “It was my privilege as Commander of HM Naval Base Portsmouth to sign on behalf of all our Armed Forces this commitment by Hovertravel to recognising the contribution that serving and veteran military personnel and their families make to the country, this being the 1000th such commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant made in the South East.”
Hovertravel commits wholeheartedly to the principle that members of the Naval Service, the Army and the Royal Air Force, together with their families deserve respect and support, and fair treatment.
Hovertravel will also endeavour to ensure that those who serve in the Armed Forces, whether Regular or Reserve, those who have served in the past, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens in the provision of public and commercial services. Furthermore Hovertravel appreciates that special consideration is appropriate in some cases, especially for those who have given most such as the injured and the bereaved and will look to encourage the use of our HoverCare facilities when and where appropriate.
