ARMED FORCES SUPPORT ON THE MENU FOR CHRISTMAS LUNCH

A Festive business event will help to promote the benefits of developing links between business and the Armed Forces.

A sell-out Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce Christmas lunch will provide an opportunity to raise awareness about the ChamberFORCE Armed Forces Programme.

ChamberFORCE is a partnership programme between 4 Chambers of Commerce in Scotland and their local Navy, Army and RAF units, backed by sponsorship and support from Amazon and HRFCA (Highland Reserve Forces & Cadets Association). It has been designed to bring tangible benefits to Chamber members and to Defence. The founding Chambers and Amazon have all signed the Armed Forces Covenant and achieved ERS (Employer Recognition Scheme) Gold Awards.

Taking place at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel – also a Gold ERS Award holder – almost 100 guests will hear from guest speaker Charandeep Singh, Deputy Chief Executive at Scottish Chambers of Commerce as well as from an Amazon representative about the ChamberFORCE partnership.

Damon Scott, Dunbartonshire Chamber Chief Executive, said: “We are looking forward to a fantastic event. We are very fortunate that Charandeep has made time in his busy schedule to speak at our event. He is one of Scotland’s foremost business leaders and a key figure in influencing and shaping government policy on both Scottish and UK levels.

“It is extremely fitting that ChamberFORCE will form a key part of the event with the support of Amazon and HRFCA. Along with the Chamber and Amazon the Golden Jubilee is also a holder of the Gold ERS Award.

Jamie Strain, General Manager at Amazon Dunfermline, said: “We are delighted to support the ChamberFORCE programme as it very much aligns with our commitment and support for the Armed Forces as a Gold ERS Award holder.”

“Amazon has benefited enormously from employing ex-military personnel and reservists, and we want ChamberFORCE to provide a platform for many other businesses to enjoy the same benefits.”

This year, through its Military Programme, Amazon will recruit over 300 veterans, reservists and military spouses in over 35 different jobs. These jobs range from health & safety specialists, engineers, sales managers and team leaders to senior managers.

Charandeep Singh added: “I look forward to supporting the ChamberFORCE programme and unlocking the opportunities for Scotland’s communities. With many sectors and companies continuing to cite recruitment challenges and skills shortages as a barrier to growth, ChamberFORCE is an excellent example of how partnership working can tackle the big challenges facing our economy.”

The lunch will also support The Golden Friendships Club as the nominated charity for this years event.