North East Mayor Kim McGuinness has signed the Armed Forces Covenant - a promise to treat with fairness and respect those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families. A
The signing in Newcastle on July 31 was the North of England’s 800th such pledge, and the 12,00th nationally.
Mayor McGuinness said: "I'm proud to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant for the North East Combined Authority.
"I’m lucky to know many incredible people who serve or have served in the Forces. We value and rely their service and they deserve real opportunity."
Mayor McGuinness was joined by representatives from The Army, The Navy, and The Royal Air Force for the short ceremony in the North East CA office at The Lumen.
The voluntary signing of the covenant shows the North East CA is committed to supporting those leaving the Armed Forces through offering a guarantee of an interview to those applying for posts.
A Reserves Forces policy will also support colleagues who are reservists.
The North East CA will also work towards the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) working towards their Bronze, Silver and Gold awards.