Soldiers in the Royal Bermuda Regiment will be more formally reminded of the organisation’s ethos and expectations thanks to the recent introduction of a mandatory annual test on behaviours.

More than 100 people – including the newest recruits – have already passed the assessment, which covers the RBR’s values and standards as well as diversity, equity and inclusion.

Major Thomas Wood, the regiment’s executive officer, said: “Originally this was delivered to recruits as part of a few presentations just to align their thoughts and ideas around what are the correct behaviours, and what’s expected of them from life within the service.

“A requirement developed to remind people about the desired values and standards of those who serve.”

He explained that a training exercise was introduced to ensure that all RBR members are clear about how they are expected to conduct themselves, as well as the regiment’s objectives with respect to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Major Wood added that although commitments to diversity, equity and inclusion were already ingrained in the RBR’s values and standards, the themes are now distinctly highlighted.

He said: “The idea is not to hide it within our messaging. It’s to make it upfront, directly stand out and let people know they can expect – if they work within the regiment, for the regiment or alongside the regiment – that we want to have an environment where people are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work.”

The training also sets out the RBR’s complaints procedure. Major Wood said the exercise was well-received by those who have taken part.

He added: “People are embracing it and highlighting it. I’ve had a number of conversations so far from people who have attended – both people in the first part of their career and people who have been in for many years.

“There have been discussions around it and what it means. It’s generating talking points and people are asking questions.”

The RBR’s mission in relation to diversity, equity and inclusion is to be a regiment that is justifiably recognised as an inclusive employer that respects difference, attracts talent from all areas of society, overtly embraces equality of opportunity and always challenges unacceptable behaviour.

Lieutenant-Colonel Ben Beasley, the RBR’s Commanding Officer, said: “In order for us to maintain a regiment that truly reflects the positive characteristics of modern Bermuda, we must consistently cultivate an environment where people can be the best version of themselves.

“Every member of the regiment has the right to work in an environment that is free from discrimination, bullying and harassment.

“The annual training test clearly identifies the values and standards that guide the behaviours of everyone serving in the RBR.

“It articulates the regiment’s position on diversity, equity and inclusion, and provides direction for anyone that witnesses any behaviours that are unacceptable.”

Behaviours became the sixth mandatory annual training test for RBR soldiers. The others include assessments in operational fitness, personal fitness, personal weapons, rules of engagement and judgment, and first aid.

To read more about the conduct expected of RBR soldiers, visit www.bermudaregiment.bm/about/values-and-standards. For more information or to join the regiment, visit www.bermudaregiment.bm or call 238-1045