A SWINDON-BASED company with a track record for supporting retired military veterans has won an award from the Ministry of Defence for its efforts.

SSGC received a bronze award from the MoD's employer recognition scheme and last year it signed the Armed Forces Covenant, which recognises organisations that pledge, demonstrate or advocate support to defence and the armed forces community.

SSGC Ltd recruited former Royal Military policeman Keith Horemans in January to work on several initiatives aimed at improving the lives and wellbeing of veterans.

He said: “SSGC has been a driving force in helping me get back on my feet. Not too long ago I was diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder stemming from my military service and after that my job, which I had secured post-operations, was made redundant.

“I have known the CEO, David Stubbs, for more than 30 years as we went through military training together. We got back in touch through a colleague and I was thrilled to find out about his success and the business’s commitment to armed forces.

“The team has helped me get a handle on my PTSD and empowered me with a purpose to drive forward an agenda I am so passionate about.

"While it does help me pay the bills and look after my family, it’s also one that I strongly believe is making a difference and helping these selfless individuals settle back into normality.

“It’s so important to recognise these retired officers who, in most cases, have sacrificed a large part of their lives serving their country.

"Not many of us are vocal about the mental health issues we face when returning home so it is paramount that organisations who have the power to affect change strike while the iron is hot, and I am so grateful to SSGC for what they have done for me.”

Keith and former soldier James Rose helped set up a dedicated email address which former armed veterans, serving officers or family members can use to get in touch with the business.

And the pair helped set up systems that allow the business to employ service spouses and families, wherever their current location is and grants a degree of flexibility to work with along with additional paid holidays.

Keith added: "Together, we are providing them with the right support, they need to get through difficult and challenging circumstances. I am pleased to say that more than 500 veterans, 80 reservists and a number of spouses living in the UK and internationally have been provided with jobs over the last few months.”

As well as its commitment to its own staff, SSGC works with Mission Motorsport as its charity partner, so far donating more than £20,000 to the organisation, which works with wounded, injured or sick service leavers and veterans.

The company has since been nominated for the employer recognition scheme’s silver award.