Kellogg’s UK has made a commitment to veterans, reservists, and their families, by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. Local MP Andrew Western was there, when the Trafford Park-based company publicly made its declaration.

The Covenant is a voluntary pledge, that acknowledges that those who serve, or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, should be treated with fairness and respect.

The cereal and snacks company says it actively supports the employment of veterans, recognising military skills and qualifications in its recruitment and selection process. Kellogg’s also recently removed the requirement for job applicants to the company to have a degree as part of its drive to become a more inclusive employer.

Chris Silcock, UK managing director at Kellogg, said: “At Kellogg’s we believe everyone should have a place at the table. By signing the Armed Forces Covenant we hope to become a career destination for veterans.

“We will continue to actively support the employment of veterans, recognising military skills and qualifications in our recruitment and selection process. We’ll also continue to partner with organisations such as the Northwest Service Leavers to provide coaching and mentoring through Service transition to civilian life.”

Andrew Western said: “I was very proud to be invited by Kellogg’s to speak to staff as they signed the Armed Forces Covenant Pledge committing to supporting members of staff with links to the armed forces. It’s really important that employers understand the issues facing service men and women, veterans, reservists and their families so I was delighted to see Kellogg’s sign the pledge.”

Chris Silcock and Andrew Western were both joined by Commander Judith Barnes Royal Navy Reserve, Air Employer Engagement Regional Officer and Colonel Darren Doherty to officially sign the Covenant.

Colonel Darren Doherty, Commander Army Northwest Region, said: “I am delighted to witness a huge global company such as Kellogg’s, and one with roots firmly in the North West, publicly pledging their continued support to the Armed Forces community: serving regular, reserves, veterans and their families, by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. I look forward to supporting Kellogg’s in their next steps towards achieving award status as part of the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme.”

Kellogg’s has donated 19,000 servings of food over the past year to charities across the UK, who state their primary audience as military personnel, veterans or their families. This includes residential settings, training centres, drop in and day centres.