Advance Summer 2024

PUBLISHER

Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk

STAFF WRITER

Kate Stevenson

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION

Lucy Baillie lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.uk

SALES

Marian Mathieson marian.mathieson@dcpublishing.co.uk

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Patricia-Ann Young

Paula Murray

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Transitioning from the armed forces to civilian life can be challenging, but with the right support and guidance, it can be a smooth and straightforward process. Preparing for this move now will make the journey easier for you and your family.

In this issue of Advance, you can find a wealth of advice, information,

Contents Welcome

TRAINING

Find out what dedicated support you qualify for to help you retrain. 10 EXPLORING ELCAS

The Enhanced Learning Credits scheme could fund your further education.

WORK

6 A CAREER IN THE NHS

A career in the NHS could be the perfect fit.

13 OP PROSPER TO BOOST VETERANS’ CAREER SUCCESS

A new government funded initiative is helping veterans to find employment. 14 ON THE ROAD AGAIN

A career in driving and logistics could perfectly align with your skill set. 16 SKILLS FOR

Discover how your skills could help you in a new career.

and resources to assist you, whether you’re just beginning your transition or are well on your way. Discover how to transfer your military skills to a new career, explore opportunities to give back to your community, and learn how to secure funding for retraining. All of this and much more inside.

Advance Team

18 OWNING A FRANCHISE

The advantages of running your own business through a franchise.

SUPPORT

4 LIFE ON CIVVY STREET

The organisations offering support through the resettlement process.

24 LIFE BEYOND SERVICE

It’s time to start preparing for your civilian life.

27 TIME WELL SPENT

Make a positive impact in your life and in the lives of others.

FINANCE

21 MONEY MATTERS

Learn how to manage your money and how to seek support.

INTERVIEW

30 AN ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME

Levison Wood talks to Advance about his career transition a er leaving the army. 6

Leaving the armed forces can be an uncertain time, but there’s plenty of resources out there to help smooth the transition into civilian life

A Life on Civvy Street

djusting to a less regimented civilian life can feel intimidating, potentially leading to feelings of isolation and uncertainty. Even though adjusting to your new reality can be a challenge, you will always be part of the armed forces community and there’s lots of help out there if you need it. Leaving the structured environment of the military to civilian life is a process that takes time, patience, and support. It’s normal to face various obstacles along the way, but with support you can navigate the transition more smoothly. Here are just a few organisations that are there to help you settle into your new civilian life.

SSAFA mentoring

SSAFA (www.ssafa.org.uk) offer a one-to-one, face-to-face mentoring service that is available to access for up to two years after exiting military service. This personalised support comes from people who have already made the transition and know how you feel. If you feel lost and isolated, your mentor can give you and your family the guidance and confidence to take on civilian life. They are

on hand to help you adjust to the differences between your military and civilian lifestyles.

Civvy St. app

This app aims to be a one-stop shop for all things post military service. The app will recommend relevant jobs in your area, provide guidance on cover letters, CVs and job interviews, and provide real-time advice from veterans already established on civvy street. It will also act as a networking app alerting you to veteran meetups nearby. The app is launching later this year, but you can sign up for updates on their website now (www.civvyst.com).

Forces Employment Charity

In 2022, RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity (RFEA) and Officers’ Association (OA) came together to form Forces Employment Charity, (www.forcesemployment. org.uk) one organisation that would support service leavers, veterans and family members. Their services are incredibly extensive, with programmes catered to veterans in the criminal justice system, women

service members, and spouses of military leavers too. Their One Too Many programme aims to put veterans struggling with their mental health in touch with relevant resources, providing help through difficult times.

Armed Forces Covenant

The Armed Forces Covenant website (www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk) hosts lots of helpful advice for service leavers and veterans, including information on healthcare, housing and financial matters. Help is there for both those thinking of leaving military service and those who have already left. They also offer an e-learning package that specifically addresses the issues that are commonly faced by those leaving the military. They provide advice on personal, family and social adjustment too.

“You will always be part of the armed forces community and there’s lots of help out there if you need it”

A career in the NHS

Keeping

cool under pressure is just as important in a healthcare setting as it is in the armed forces. You can transfer your skills to a brand-new career in the NHS

To be in the military, you must be a team player, work hard and have compassion for others. You must be passionate about your job, able to think on your feet and keep a cool head in stressful situations. These qualities can keep us safe while in service, but they are also qualities that transfer well to the NHS too. If you want to use the skills you gained in the armed services to continue to help people, a career in the health sector could be perfect for you. There’s avenues available to help veterans move into the NHS and health services, and here’s just a few examples of where you can start.

Role variety

While a move into the NHS might seem like a natural progression for medics, it can also be the next step for personnel that have served in other branches of the forces. The NHS however is the UK’s largest employer and there’s up to 350 different roles and opportunities available in the organisation. You can join in an administration role, move into the human resources department, become a facilities or estate management worker, or even serve as a domestic support or driver.

NHS step into health

Through Step into Health, (www.militarystepintohealth.nhs.uk) the UK armed forces community can access the numerous career opportunities available in the NHS. This is open to all service leavers, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, veterans and partners or

children of regular serving members of the UK armed forces. The Step into Health website is a handy resource and has useful questionnaires through their Find Your Career tool that will help you narrow down roles within the NHS that fit your skill set.

Apprenticeships

If you want to change careers and learn something new, the NHS Step into Health Pathways Tool allows users to explore apprenticeship routes into a variety of NHS roles. These apprenticeship roles teach new skills through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom learning, with you likely to be on work placement four days a week, and at a training centre or college one day a week.

Apprenticeships are available at a variety of levels, from the equivalent of GCSEs all the way up to the equivalent of a full bachelor’s or master’s degree. Many NHS employers will also pay you more than minimum wage while you carry out your apprenticeship.

Candidate system

NHS Step into Health also has a candidate system that gives employers the ability to look up a database of potential candidates with the specific skill sets they are looking for. This takes the pressure off you and allows employers to contact you directly if they would like to invite you to interview. All you have to do to sign up is register as a candidate on the NHS Step into Health website.

Work placements

Committing to a new career can feel like a big risk, and so it’s completely natural to want to know if you will actually enjoy a new role before you spend time and money getting trained up. That’s why the NHS offers work placements to allow potential employees to experience what it is like working for the organisation. Work placements can be adapted to suit your schedule and needs and can last from anywhere between a few days to 3-4 weeks, depending on the availability of the NHS branch you choose to work with. They can also be organised directly with an individual

NHS organisation through the candidate system, where you can outline any areas of particular interest. When setting up a work placement, it’s important to be clear with the employer organising your placement what exactly you are expecting from the experience. This will help keep you both on the same page and avoid disappointment on either side. You will also be expected to organise your own travel and accommodation.

Securing a NHS work placement can help support any future job applications within the NHS. They are a great way to learn more about the NHS and to meet new people within the organisation.

TOP TIPS

Always check if the job application has a tick box asking whether you were or are a member of the armed forces, because a number of organisations offer guaranteed interview schemes if you meet and demonstrate the minimum criteria.

If you are thinking of applying for a job or an apprenticeship, it is always a good idea to get in touch with the point of contact cited

FIND OUT MORE

on the advert. This will allow you to ask any questions you have and will allow them to give you a fuller explanation of what type of skills they are looking for from applicants.

Always remember that the skills you fine tuned in the armed forces are easily transferable and will help you help others for the rest of your new career.

The NHS has over 350 different careers available. The Step Into Health programme provides a dedicated pathway for your career in the NHS. Find out more at www.militarystepintohealth.nhs.uk

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Back to school

If you decide to return to education once you leave the armed forces, there’s lots of help available to you, including financial support and career advice

Heading back to civilian life can feel challenging, especially when you’re uncertain about your next steps. Signing up for an educational course or retraining in something new can give you a sense of purpose, boost your confidence, and unlock new talents and skills you didn’t even know you had. If you are thinking about returning to formal education, there’s a few options out there for members of the armed forces. Here’s some you should check out.

ENHANCED LEARNING CREDITS (ELC)

The MOD’s Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) scheme provides financial support for further education for members of the armed forces. This can be used to strengthen skills while still in service or to help with finding employment upon returning to civilian life.

The ELC scheme offers financial support for a maximum of three separate financial years. If you are

currently not in service, you must contact your respective Single Service Representative (SSR) to register for an ELC account. How much funding you are entitled to is dependent on how long you have served in the armed forces, and you can visit the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (www.enhancedlearningcredits. com) website to find out exactly what you qualify for. Only approved providers and courses qualify for ELC funding, so check before applying if the course you wish to study is on the list. If not, you can contact the provider of the course and ask them to apply to the MOD for their course to be approved. Turn to page 10 to find out everything you need to know about the ELC scheme.

“Unlock new talents and skills you didn’t even know you had”

COLLEGE FOR MILITARY VETERANS AND EMERGENCY SERVICES (CMVES)

Often simply referred to as ‘the College’, CMVES is in place to help the smooth transition from military to civilian life through providing educational opportunities. Their support is multifaceted and will help you on your journey to new opportunities, be that starting your own business and becoming your own boss or finding relevant training and apprenticeships that suit your skillset.

EMPLOYMENT GRANTS AND LOANS

There are also a few employment grants and loans available to former military personnel. For those in financial need, The President’s Award Scheme – Royal British Legion Womens’ Section, (www. britishlegion.org.uk) can help with course fees or to purchase equipment required to re-enter education, such as a laptop or textbooks.

The Bursary Award by the Officers’ Association Scotland (www.oascotland.org.uk) helps those based in Scotland with course fees or sometimes even learning materials or childcare costs. For those who would like to start their own business, X-Forces Enterprise (www.x-forces.com) provide support to members of the armed forces who would like to apply for a Start-Up-Loan.

FIND OUT MORE

Visit www.enhanced learningcredits.com to find out how much financial support you are entitled to. Visit cmves.org.uk to find out how the college can help you in the next steps of your career.

EXPLORING ELCAS Getting to grips with the Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme

The Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme can help you to pay for further education whether you are currently serving or are a service leaver. We explain everything you need to know

Are you unsure what to do now that you’ve left the armed forces? You’re not alone – hundreds of service leavers exit the forces and begin to wonder what’s next for them.

While serving in the military, your rank will decide most of your responsibilities. But this all changes when you re-join civilian society, and most jobs will want you to have qualifications, skills, and experiences that you might not have.

One of the best ways you can improve your employability is by continuing your education, and enrolling in a university or college course. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) can help you to fund your higher education through its Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) scheme. But what is it, and how can you apply for it?

WHAT IS AN ELC?

The ELC scheme is an exciting opportunity to upgrade your current qualifications or retrain as something new. If you qualify for the ELC scheme, the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) will help to fund your higher-level learning. You will receive one single payment (per year, for a maximum of three financial years) towards the cost of your course.

Education, while expensive, is never a waste of money, and the MOD wants to help fund your

training. Perhaps there’s a course you’d like to enrol in but you are unsure how you will finance it? Well, the MOD can help you by awarding you with up to £1,000 of monetary support each year.

You can use the credits to pay for a nationally recognised qualification at Level 3 (A Level and equivalent). They can also be used for the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF), a Level 6 or a Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF).

SIGNING UP

Registering for the ELC scheme can be overwhelming. There are quite a few stages to the application, but they’re outlined in the Joint Service Publication (JSP) 822. The Advanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) can also help you if you get stuck.

Essentially, you must register on the ELCAS site and have served for at least four years to make a claim. If you’re still serving, you can speak to your Education Staff, or if you have already left, you can contact your SSR so that ELCAS can check your account. Once approved, you can start your search for a provider or course and submit your claim. Make sure you complete the course evaluation when asked, as you can’t make any more claims until you do this.

THE TIERS

The ELC is split into two tiers and depends on your length of service

in the military. After four years, you will be entitled to £1,000 worth of funding each year. If you’ve served for more than eight years, you’ll be awarded £2,000 per year. Remember, you can only make a total of three ELC claims in your lifetime. But you don’t need to use the money for the same course each time. As long as you only claim once in the financial year, the ELC will help you fund several courses or one continued qualification.

ELIGIBILITY

As long as you fit the scheme’s criteria, you can claim for ELC

support. But, you must be able to contribute at least 20% towards the total cost of the course. You will also have to fund any fees associated with the qualification too. These could be your accommodation, living costs, course books, material or travel expenses.

COURSES

You could use your ELC to study on a number of courses. As long as the course is nationally recognised at Level 3 or equivalent, then the sky is the limit. To confirm that a course is Level 3 or above, get in

touch with the provider for more information.

Starting a new qualification is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. You could take a course in finance, stocks, healthcare and more. But, if you’re not sure what to do, that’s okay, too. Why not look online at college or university prospectuses to see if there are any courses that appeal? If you’re still struggling, you can contact the Career Transition Partnership (www.ctp.org.uk) for more information. They’ll be able to offer you hands-on support and advise you on what to do next.

But remember, you don’t have to make your mind up right now – you have ten years to make a claim. So, take some time to think before you jump into higher education.

FIND

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SCAN ME

Op Prosper to boost Veterans’ Career Success

The value of former servicemen and women has finally been recognised in a new government funded initiative to help veterans on to the civilian career ladder

new scheme is aiming to match ex-servicemen and women with the kinds of roles they can thrive in using the extensive skillset amassed in the military.

A UNLOCKING POTENTIAL

Op Prosper was launched earlier this year with a £2.1million cash injection from the UK Government as the country looks to become the best in the world for veterans.

It will support former soldiers and their spouses to secure high paid jobs in various industries ranging from cyber security to manufacturing.

There are roughly 700,000 veterans in civilian employment across Britain but many feel they are in lowskilled or low-paid jobs where their talents are not fully appreciated. Yet employers who have recruited former military members say they bring value to the workforce and tend to be promoted faster than their civilian colleagues because of their ‘can do’ attitude.

The new scheme will push for a veteran friendly business world which will offer tailored pathways into employment.

SKILLSET

Johnny Mercer, the Minister for Veteran’s Affairs says ex-military personnel have an “abundance of

“For too long, too many have ended up in jobs that don’t fully harness their talents and abilities”

skills and the tenacity and drive to continue achieving greatness” but admits: “For too long, too many have ended up in jobs that don’t fully harness their talents and abilities. By connecting veterans with employers, engaging industry bodies and the importance of hiring veterans, and strengthening their qualifications and skills the government will ensure more ex-servicemen and women are securing high quality and fulfilling employment.”

Among those leading the way are online retailer Amazon, energy company Centrica and financial services giant Deloitte, which has ran its own initiative since 2012 recognising the benefits service leavers can bring to a business.

TRANSITION

Chris Recchia, partner at Deloitte, lead for the firm’s Military Transition and Talent Programme and founder of the VeteransWork Employment Campaign, says:

“As a veteran who served in the armed forces for 12 years, I understand the challenges that

veterans face when they transition from service life to civilian life.”

“Veterans have skills, knowledge, experience and resilience. I encourage all veterans to be confident in bringing these attributes to employers during their transition so companies can capitalise on the unique veteran community.”

Launching Op Prosper in April, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hailed veterans are well-placed to take on roles in industries boosting the economy adding it was time for the country “to serve them as well as they’ve served us”.

“They deserve our full support to thrive in civilian life and to continue contributing their incredible skills to the prosperity of our country,” he conceded.

FIND OUT MORE

For more information on Op Prosper and to register your interest, visit www.forcesemployment.org.uk/ programmes/op-prosper/

On the road again

As you begin a new chapter in your life after the forces, you might start to think about what to do next. A career in driving and logistics could perfectly align with your skill set and discipline

Driving and logistics could be the perfect fit for service leavers who are looking for a smooth transition. Many companies are ready to welcome service leavers into their fold and previous servicemen and women have excelled in this industry.

SMOOTH TRANSITION

As the demand for skilled drivers and efficient supply chain managers continues to grow, so do the opportunities for service leavers looking to embark on a new career path. After years of dedicated service, you possess an impressive collection of transferable skills that make you a prime candidate in the world of driving and logistics. Discipline, adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving are just some of the qualities you will have learnt while in the military. These traits, combined with your ability to work under pressure and make swift decisions, are invaluable assets in the logistics industry. By exploring opportunities

available through providers who understand the benefits of employing service leavers, you can make the move into your new career, feeling confident that you’re in the right role.

OPPORTUNITIES

Before you start applying for jobs in the logistics industry, it’s important to do your research first. There is a host of valuable resources online that can help you to decide if this is the right path for you.

Many websites cater specifically to veterans and service leavers seeking employment opportunities. Industryspecific job boards like Forces Recruitment Solutions (www.forcesrecruitment.co.uk) and the Forces Employment Charity (www.forcesemployment.org.uk) focus on connecting former military personnel with civilian jobs, including those in the driving and logistics sector.

You can also contact logistics and transport organisations directly to explore job opportunities or visit their websites to learn more about the industry and decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Pathways

DHL

(www.careers.dhl.com)

DHL is a global logistics leader that actively recruits exmilitary personnel due to their exceptional skills and work ethic. They offer dedicated training programs and apprenticeships to help you develop your logistics expertise and build a successful career within their organisation.

EDDIE STOBART

(www.eddiestobart.com)

Eddie Stobart, one of the UK’s most renowned logistics companies, is committed to supporting service leavers in their career transitions. They have partnerships with various military charities and offer tailored training programs to help you thrive in the world of logistics.

WINCANTON

(www.wicanton.co.uk)

Wincanton, a leading supply chain solutions provider, recognises the value of your military experience and offers a warm welcome to service leavers. They provide comprehensive training programs and attractive career progression opportunities for anyone looking to transition into the industry.

XPO

(www.xpo.com)

XPO Logistics is another prominent player in the logistics industry that actively seeks service leavers to join their ranks. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, they provide various support programs and pathways for ex-forces personnel and veterans.

FIND OUT MORE

To discover more about a career in driving and logistics, speak to the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (www.ciltuk.org.uk), or visit a specialised job-board like Forces Recruitment Solutions (www.forcesrecruitment.co.uk) or the Forces Employment Charity (www.forcesemployment.org.uk).

DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS FORWARD

Are you looking for a dynamic, progressive, experienced recruitment agency to support your business needs? We can supply a tailored solution for whatever your recruitment requirements, whilst providing dedicated support for the Armed Forces community.

With years of experience, our experts have lived the day-to-day demands of the industry and understand what it takes to help you succeed. With proven expertise in recruiting across the driving and logistics industries at all levels, we can help source:

Class 1 and Class 2 drivers

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Tra c planners and managers

And more!

Contact us now to fi nd out more information about our tailored recruitment solutions.

We’re proud to say that we have received the silver award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, for commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community through employment. We look forward to continuing this support helping ex-service personnel secure jobs.

The military provides you with lifelong skills that can ease your transition into civilian life. But what skills are the most transferable?

T Skills for Life

he military spend a lot of time training its soldiers so they can perform their duties anywhere in the world. While you may think you won’t be able to use the skills you learnt from the armed forces as a service leaver, they could actually give you a distinct advantage in the job market. This is because hiring managers are keen to interview candidates with transferrable skills because they think you will be better at problem solving, thinking outside the box and meeting their deadlines.

Which is why, to most employers, what you’ve learnt from working in the forces will make you an ideal candidate - the tricky part is picking which skills to highlight in your CV! But with so many skills to choose from, which qualities should you emphasise in your application?

Communication skills

Communicating is an essential part of any job but even more critical in the military. It’s important to explain to an employer how your previous experience working on

“To most employers, what you’ve learnt from working in the forces will make you the ideal candidate”

different operations and in harmony with the rest of your squadron transfers to their workplace. These days, most businesses require group work or planning, so explaining how you resolved or rose above past conflicts and what you have learnt from them can be helpful. Try to paint the interviewer a picture of your work ethic and how you will contribute to their team- show them how the communication skills you learnt in service will help you succeed.

Leadership skills

Leadership is a desirable quality that many employers seek when creating their workforce. It demonstrates that you have strong problem-solving, organisation and communication skills that many businesses are looking for.

The Army Leadership Code outlines a clear standard that soldiers should adhere to, and these values can be transferred to other jobs, too. Leaders must provide clear instructions, encourage their team’s confidence and motivate them to achieve. You could detail in your CV how the leadership skills you learnt in the military will help you fulfil your new role and benefit their business, especially in managerial positions.

Analytical skills

Employers are looking for analytical abilities in nearly every industry; your time spent in service will have fine-tuned these skills. These skills are necessary in most jobs as they will help you investigate, find solutions and make decisions on complex issues.

During your time in service, you may have used analytical skills to turn information into intelligence or to research, compile and evaluate data. This ability to apply logic and handle numbers is a desirable skill and can translate into many jobs in the finance, business, science and engineering sectors.

Personal qualities

While your experience in the armed forces will have given you a variety of practical skills to use in your new job, you will also have grown as a person. Ex-servicemen and women like yourself are usually well-versed in working in dynamic teams and

great at adapting to different situations. You will most likely have become more disciplined and built a strong sense of character and resilience too, which will help you to come across well in an interview. Military personnel are also thought of as highly responsible individuals with a can-do attitude that employers look for when hiring candidates. Make sure to highlight these personal qualities in your job interviews and show them why they should hire you.

Civilian jobs

The skills you gained in the military will benefit you throughout your life and enable you to make valuable contributions to society a er service. While it may initially be challenging to see how your skills translate to civilian roles, it is entirely possible. It can be hard to choose what to do next, especially if you’ve never pursued another career, but there are lots of options. For instance, the discipline, determination and physical fitness skills you learnt in the military could make you the perfect personal trainer. Or if you thrived in a highpressure environment, you could consider a career in security or the police force.

Writing your CV

The most important thing to remember when you’re applying for a new job is to explain your skills in a way that businesses will understand. Some employers will know very little about military work, so take the time to clearly translate your forces skills into civilian ones. This process can be quite tricky, but the Veteran’s Gateway (www.veteransgateway.org.uk) has a helpful guide on CV writing that you can use. The guide will help you highlight your unique experiences and create a CV that makes your job search easier.

FIND OUT MORE

For help writing your CV or translating your skills in interviews, contact the Career Transition Partnership (www.ctp.org.uk) and the Forces Employment Charity (www.forcesemployment.org.uk) for more help.

Opening a franchise allows you to run your own business while benefiting from an existing and proven business model to achieve success

Becoming a FRANCHISEE

n the UK there are over 1,000 franchise systems employing more than 710,000 people. According to NatWest, 97 per cent of these are profitable and register an annual turnover of at least £250,000. The industry is currently worth around £17 billion and is the perfect fit for many service leavers.

If you decide to open a franchise, you’ll benefit from the established reputation of the company while building your own customer base. Well-known franchises include McDonald’s, Domino’s, Subway, and Costa, but they come in all sizes and industries.

When starting a franchise, the individual who wants to operate the business, called the franchisee, invests in opening a new branch of an existing company, owned by the franchisor. Although the franchisee owns their branch, they must follow the franchisor’s rules and regulations. In return, the franchisor receives royalties or franchise fees.

SUCCESS

Franchises have a higher success rate compared to other new businesses due to the lower risk of failure. However, like any business venture,

there are still risks involved. Opening a franchise requires a long-term financial commitment to which you are legally bound.

Along with any challenges, owning a franchise comes with benefits, too. You get to be your own boss, have some control over the decisions that will make your business a success, and you’ll get to put key skills from the armed forces into use.

SKILLS

The skills you gained during your time in the armed forces are to the highest standard - this is just one of the reasons why service leavers and veterans can make the perfect franchisee.

The high calibre of skills you have gained during your time serving are suited to franchising: discipline, time management, organisation and leadership will all come in handy. As a franchisee, you may take on

“Franchises are a perfect fit for many service leavers”

multiple roles in the business, especially when you’re just starting out. From customer service to accounts, being accustomed to the versatility of the military is invaluable and will help your business thrive.

TEAM WORK

Positive relationships are key to success in business, so effective communication with the franchisor is essential. This could leave you with better access to advice and tips to ensure you succeed. The franchisor’s practices will be tried and tested, with possible errors and mistakes already weeded out.

The ability to work with new and different people will help when recruiting staff to work for your franchise. Effective leadership will ensure your employees do a good job and in turn, make your franchise more successful.

FIND OUT MORE

Which Franchise (www. whichfranchise.com) provides advice and information tailored to service leavers and veterans, along with success stories from people with a military background.

Join our team

1.9 million. The number of emergency calls made in London every year. The most in the country. But working for the London Ambulance Service is more than just the numbers. It’s about the people. The patients. The newborn babies, the cardiac arrests, stabbing victims, third-degree burns and elderly fallers. It’s about being here when people need us most.

Why not come and provide the highest quality care for one of the world’s busiest ambulance services. We are currently recruiting for staff for roles from back office to frontline. Where ever you work in our organization there are opportunities for you to develop your skills and progress your career.

For more information and to find out how to join the world’s busiest ambulance service please visit http://jobs.londonambulance.nhs.uk/

It’s not an everyday job.

As you navigate the resettlement process, your skills and experience are invaluable.

Join the Air and Space Institute (ASI) and shape the future of aviation.

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Many w ho ar e s erving, d ecide t o leav e b efore t aking al l c onsiderations ab out t heir p ension, i nto ac count. W orse, many do not appreciate their worth, often underestimating their pension value. At today’s values, a pension i ncome of £20,000pa would require a pension pot of at least £400,000.

Seeking in dividual g uidance f rom t he F orces P ensions C onsultants a t t he F orces P ension S ociety w ill h elp y ou secure a f irm f inancial fo undation b efore adv ancing i nto t he ou tside w orld. E ven t iming y our d eparture t o b est advantage can make a significant difference to what you receive.

Here’s what one Society Member wrote to us recently:

Y our pension will be a significant element in your entry into the civilian sector or into retirement. Either way, your, a nd y our f amily’s w ell-being d epends o n m atching y our p ension ch oices t o y our p ersonal c ircumstances. Join us and arm yo urself with the information you need about your real worth before you decide when to leave.

MONEY MATTERS

There’s

plenty of financial support and

advice out there for veterans … you just need to know where to look and how to access it effectively

Getting your head around money and savings can be hard at the best of times. But it can be especially difficult for those thinking of leaving the armed forces. It’s important to get your finances in order before you transition to civilian life. Luckily for you, you are entitled to lots of help owing to the time you spent serving your country. When you embrace the support available to you, it will make money matters as easy as 1, 2, 3. The more research you do, the more equipped you will be to start your new life. Here are a few resources to support your journey towards financial stability.

First Defence Finance

Unlike other traditional banks, credit unions are not run for profit. Instead, they support the community or group that makes up their members. First Defence Finance, FDF (www.firstdefencefinance.co.uk) is just one of a few credit unions set up and run by armed forces personnel, and it aims to make it as easy as possible for service men and women to build savings and borrow at lower rates. Serving members, reserves and veterans can all join and expect benefits such as a savings account with annual projected dividends

of up to 4.1%, loans up to £25,000 above savings from 7.9% APR, and also 10% off your gym membership. You can even set up a junior account for your children too. There are no early repayment penalties on FDF loans, and interest is calculated on the reducing balance – this means as payment is made on the loan, the amount of interest due is also reduced. Your savings are covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS), meaning your money is protected up to the first £85,000. Joining is completely free, but members are required to save at least £10 a month in their Regular Saver account.

“Get your finances in order before you start your new life”

Royal British Legion Grants

As you likely know, the Royal British Legion (RBL, www.british legion.org.uk) is there to help and support veterans wherever and whenever they need it. They offer a variety of grants to former armed forces personnel, and their website is full of helpful information on the services they offer.

If you ever face an urgent situation and are not sure how to pay an unexpected bill or expense, the RBL offers crisis grants to help you through the emergency. The scheme doesn’t provide cash but can help with essentials for you and your family in times of need. This can be anything from vouchers to buy food, to paying for short notice travel costs like petrol or train tickets. They can even help you buy must-need items like clothing, or provide funds for accommodation when someone is street homeless. Keep in mind that repayment of business debts, loans, legal expenses and medical care are not covered by emergency grants.

Pensions

Members of the UK armed forces are entitled to a fantastic pension package which is widely considered to be one of the most generous pensions available in the UK. All members of the armed forces are automatically enrolled into the Armed Forces Pension Scheme, and unlike other schemes, you do not have to pay a monthly contribution. This is because the scheme is paid for from the public purse as a thank you for the unique sacrifice you have provided to your country throughout your career.

Your pension is calculated according to your average earnings throughout your time with the armed forces, and your ‘pension pot’ started building up from your first day of paid service. If you leave the armed forces after the age of 60, you can access your pension right away. If you leave earlier though, you will have a ‘deferred pension’ and will be given access when you reach state pension age. If you wish, you can request that your deferred pension be paid from age 55, but keep in mind that the amount of pension will be reduced because it will be in payment for longer.

If you have to take early retirement due to ill-health, you may be entitled to access your pension early.

The Veterans Railcard

While it might seem like a small thing, a Veterans Railcard (www.veterans-railcard.co.uk) can save you hundreds of pounds a year. Rail travel can be very expensive, but it can sometimes be the only way for us to see family members or get to work. With the Veterans Railcard providing a third off most rail fares and up to 60% off for up to four children aged 5 – 15 years, it has the potential to make a wonderfully significant difference to your monthly outgoings.

You are eligible for a Veterans Railcard providing you have served for at least one day or more in His Majesty’s UK Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve). UK Merchant Mariners who have seen duty on legally defined military operations are also eligible. Railcards even provide discounts to a spouse, providing they are travelling with the card holder.

FIND OUT MORE

Don’t forget to check out www. citizensadvice.org.uk for more information on what you are entitled to as a veteran of the armed forces.

We employ Armed Forces veterans and reservists in a wide range of roles across our Trust and are seeking to recruit more.

Regardless of your service, cap badge or trade, there could be an opportunity for you. Contact us for an informal chat.

staffarmedforces-veterans@cntw.nhs.uk www.cntw.nhs.uk/careers

Proudly Veteran Aware

Preparing for civilian life can be a major transition for both you and your family

Life beyond service Moving Forward

Preparing for your new life after the military can take a lot of planning. You might feel both excited and worried about the future and that’s perfectly normal. There will be challenges for both you and your family, but support and resources are available to help you navigate life after service.

Our top tip is to research as much as you can before you start your transition. Enquiring about available funding, housing and support ahead of the move will make it go smoother.

A NEW HOME

If the time has come to leave your home in the service, you will need to find a new one for your life on Civvy Street. Although it might seem difficult, there are resources and organisations that can help you whether you are looking to buy or rent.

The Army Families Federation (AFF) has comprehensive information on affordable housing schemes aimed at the armed forces community with extra assistance for

“Support and resources are available to help you navigate life after service”

those facing homelessness. SSAFA also has a wealth of guidance on their website about housing, and supports veterans and their families with their search for a new home. Although you might have your dream location in mind, where you live may be determined by the choice of schools or job opportunities on offer. It’s important that you take the time to explore the options for accommodation wherever you settle, including towns you can commute from, before you make any decisions.

Letting and estate agencies will also be able to support you and your family throughout your move.

Right Move (www.rightmove.co.uk), Zoopla (www.zoopla.co.uk), S1 Homes (www.s1homes.com) and On the Market (www.onthemarket. com) have lots of helpful resources on their websites. They also include information to help you understand the budgetary requirements for both renting and buying.

MANAGING MONEY

When you leave the service, you might experience some financial instability which can be scary. But planning ahead and preparing for the move can help you to budget for your new expenses.

The AFF has practical finance advice on their website which can help you with your budgeting. The organisation also has information on how to apply for different allowances and entitlements which could relieve some of your financial stresses. There is also guidance on how to write a CV and highlight your transferrable skills to future employers.

SSAFA also offers financial assistance to veterans and their families while the Forces Employment Charity has additional resources to help service leavers and their partners find employment. If you’re struggling to find a job, you can get in touch with veteran recruitment agencies who specialise in recruiting ex-military personnel for technical, engineering and leadership roles. First Military Recruitment (www.firstmilitary.co.uk) and Forces Recruitment Solutions (www.forcesrecruitment.co.uk) can keep you up to date with suitable vacancies.

EDUCATION

For parents with school-aged children, education has its own challenges. After a life on the move in the armed forces, settling down in one location and starting a new school can be a significant adjustment.

Veterans Gateway has lots of guidance on education and other services you can access for your children. While the Forces Children’s Education can discuss with you how

your child might cope in their new environment. Yes, it may be difficult at first, but with time they’ll thrive. If you’re still worried, you can speak to the school directly and make them aware of any additional support your child might need.

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

Leaving the forces and starting your new adventure can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming, and it’s okay to have these feelings. Talking about your concerns with your loved ones could help you and your family with the transition process. You can also speak to a mental health advisor at SAMH (0344 800 0550) or Mind (0300 123 3393), if you feel more comfortable talking to someone you don’t know. It’s important to discuss your worries and concerns.

HELP IS AT HAND

No matter how stressful the idea of leaving the service might be, it is important to remember you are not on your own. The armed forces community is all about camaraderie and this continues after you’ve left the military.

The Ministry of Defence provides guidance and support on their website for after you leave www.army.mod.uk/people/leavingwell/service-leavers-veterans/ transition-to-civilian-life. Citizens Advice (www.citizensadvice.org.uk) and the Veterans Gateway also offer many resources to assist you after you transition.

Leaving the armed forces and starting your new life can bring some unexpected surprises, but understanding what might be in store and arming yourself with information can make the move less daunting.

FIND OUT MORE

Veterans Gateway

www.veteransgateway.org.uk

SSAFA www.ssafa.org.uk

AFF www.aff.org.uk

Forces Employment Charity www.forcesemployment.org.uk

www.royalnavy.mod.uk/royalmarines

Time well spent

Discover a variety of ways to stay active, look after your wellbeing, contribute to your community, and maintain a rewarding post-military life

VOLUNTEERING

Life after leaving the forces can be slower than you are used to. Lots of service leavers choose to take on volunteer roles to keep themselves busy and give back to their community. Organisations around the country are crying out for help, including military charities. You can contact SSAFA (www.ssafa.org.uk) and the Royal British Legion (www.britishlegion.org.uk) to see what opportunities they offer.

You could also try something completely new and volunteer for a charity that isn’t associated with the military. Hundreds of organisations need volunteers, and opportunities are always available, whether virtual or online. You can visit NCVO (www. ncvo.org.uk), Volunteering Matters (www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk) and the Royal Voluntary Service’s (www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk) websites to find out what charities

need help near you.

If you fancy volunteering a bit further afield, you could look at the International Volunteer HQ for worldwide positions (www.volunteerhq.org). This opportunity could be perfect for service personnel used to sunnier climates or for those who would rather ditch the rain and see more of the world.

SERVING THE COMMUNITY

You might be a civilian now, but you don’t need to stop serving the community. The NHS and emergency services are always looking for new volunteers and would be grateful for any time you could give them. You could help out with admin work or in emergency situations — any support you can offer will be appreciated.

Emergency response volunteers, such as army reserve soldiers, are often called to action without much notice. As with the military, you will be fully trained before you are asked to take on any new roles.

MENTORING

The skills you learnt in the forces remain valuable even after you have left the service. You could continue this commitment to the military by mentoring a young person or someone just beginning the resettlement process.  Why not put your military skills to use by helping to lead a local Army Cadet’s group (www.armycadets.com)? The army sponsors the voluntary youth group and helps to run their exciting training sessions. You could make a massive difference in the lives of young people and become part of a support network for more

vulnerable teens. It can be both fun and fulfilling!

Do you have experience as a leader in the military? If you are skilled in a particular sport, you could become a volunteer coach to young people in your local area. UK Coaching (www.ukcoaching.org) has a guide on getting involved with your local community and afterschool sports clubs. Not only will you bring joy to young people by helping them be active, but watching them use the skills you taught them can be gratifying.

You could also support your fellow veterans by joining one of the mentoring programmes run by Supporting Wounded Veterans (www.supportingwoundedveterans. com) and Build Forces (www.buildforce.org.uk).

HOBBIES

The resettlement process can be challenging, and it’s important to remember to look after your wellbeing too. During your free time you could start a new hobby to help you unwind. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, you could join your local running club. It’s a great way to make new friends and keep fit at the same time.

Looking to slow down? You

could get involved in your local book club, take up gardening or learn a new language. Studies have shown that learning a language can reduce stress and help to relax your nervous system. It can also make you feel more productive and is a great way to exercise your brain.

There are hundreds of options to choose from, and you could even take a course to hone your new skill. Have a look at the prospectuses for FutureLearn (www.futurelearn.com), OpenLearn (www.open.edu) and Coursera (www.coursera.org) for free courses that you can fit in around your schedule.

COMRADESHIP

Meeting up with ex-service personnel and like-minded people can be a great way to tackle feelings of isolation after you’ve left the military. It can be daunting transitioning from military life to civilian life, and one thing many veterans struggle with is a loss of comradeship. After being so used to the constant support network in the forces, many leavers miss the comradery they shared in the military. Armed forces and Veterans Brunch Clubs (www.afvbc.net) have groups around the UK where you can meet up for a chat and grab some food. Make sure you check out the UK Veterans Walking Group on Facebook

if you’re interested in exploring the outdoors with fellow veterans. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy nature while building friendships.

RESPITE

If you have been injured in service, support organisations such as Cobseo (www.cobseo.org.uk), SSAFA (www. ssafa.org.uk) and Veteran’s Gateway (www.veteransgateway.org.uk) can help you to fund a short break away. Respite holidays allow you to take some time away from everyday life to focus on your mental and physical health. Your loved ones might also enjoy some valuable downtime too.

A day out with the whole family could do wonders for your mental health, especially if you’ve spent extended periods away from them.

Tickets for Troops (www. ticketsfortroops.org.uk) provide free tickets to members of the armed forces and their families to a variety of musical, sporting and cultural events. It’s the perfect opportunity to spend time with your friends and family, and enjoy an event of your choice together.

FIND OUT MORE

To meet up with other veterans, visit www.veteransgateway.org.uk to find a support group near you.

HAVE YOU GOT A PROBLEM WITH ALCOHOL? ONLY YOU CAN DECIDE!

To answer this question ask yourself the following questions and answer them as honestly as you can

1.Is drinking making your home life unhappy?

2.Does your drinking make you careless of your families welfare?

3.Do you drink because you are shy with other people?

4.Is drinking affecting your reputation?

5.Do you drink to escape from worries or trouble?

6.Do you drink alone?

7.Have you lost time from work due to drinking?

8.Has your ambition decreased since drinking?

9. Has your efficiency decreased since drinking?

10.Is drinking jeopardising your job or business?

11.Have you ever felt remorse after drinking?

12.Are you in financial difficulties as a result of drinking?

13.Do you turn to or seek an inferior environment when drinking?

14.Do you crave a drink at a definite time daily?

15.Does drinking cause you to have difficulty in sleeping?

16.Do you want a drink the next morning?

17.Do you drink to build up your confidence?

18.Have you ever had a complete loss of memory as a result of drinking?

19.Has your Dr ever treated you for drinking?

If you have answered “YES” to any one of the questions, there is a definite warning… If you have answered “YES” to any two, the chances are that you have a problem… If you have answered “YES” to three or more, you most certainly have a problem… “THE ONLY REQUIREMENT IS A DESIRE TO STOP DRINKING” Take action now and give us a call on 0800 917 7650… We are here to help!

An Adventure of a Lifetime

Writer,

photographer,

explorer, and former member of the Parachute Regiment, Levison Wood, speaks to Advance about his career after leaving the army

Levison grew up as the son of two teachers from Stoke-on-Trent, where he says there weren’t many opportunities for him. From a young age, he knew he wanted to join the army and follow in the footsteps of his dad in the TA and his grandad who fought in the war. It felt natural for him to join the army, and he did so knowing that beyond the military, he saw a life full of travel and adventure. Joining the Parachute Regiment was the first step for Levison in becoming an explorer: “I joined the army to gain the skills, experience, credibility, and network to be able to do something just as great afterwards.”

UNCONVENTIONAL ROUTE

Since leaving the army, Levison has used the skills he learnt during service in various ways. He’s walked the length of the River Nile, been on expeditions to the Himalayas,

“You have this oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to start afresh”

Central America, and Botswana, and even interviewed and photographed George Clooney, Paul Theroux, and the Dalai Lama. His career has taken him down unconventional avenues, but it’s been a ride of a lifetime. “I saw a lot of my friends go on to have very successful careers that, frankly, they hated,” reveals Levison. “I didn’t want to do that. I wanted to forge my own path.”

When he first left the forces, Levison and his comrade from the Parachute Regiment set up Secret Compass (www.secretcompass. com), a leading travel, production and risk management company. Although Levison thought about returning to education to do an MBA, he ultimately decided against it: “If you’re going to spend £30,000 to get your degree, why not take that money and use it to set up your own business? Even if it fails, you have probably learned more

than an MBA anyway.”

SKILLS FOR LIFE

Throughout his career, Levison has used his military skills to his advantage. The biggest piece of advice he has for future service leavers is not to feel constrained by the role they had in the military.

“When you leave the military, you probably have more skills than you’ve given yourself credit for,” maintains Levison. “You have this once-in-alifetime opportunity to start afresh, which doesn’t come around often. Take advantage of it.”

Levison believes that while his career in the Parachute Regiment and his travels around the world may seem contrasting, they actually complement one another: “The military grounded me, instilled discipline, and encouraged me to overcome incredible challenges, all of which greatly benefited my travels.”

TAKING RISKS

Changing careers is never an easy decision, especially when leaving the forces. Levison struggled with his choice and the prospect of losing the comradeship he had relied on so heavily. However, the extensive network and community groups of veterans worldwide supported him throughout his transition.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice,” stresses Levison. “Wherever you are in the world, there will be someone you can speak to. The brotherhood, comradery and support continues when you leave.”

Levison is currently working on an exciting short film exploring the reality of transitioning to ‘normal’ life after conflict. The project is offering employment to veterans in the UK. For the opportunity to join Levison and the rest of the cast as an extra on the ‘The Burn’ set, visit http://kck.st/3JVBs7I

Training for a new career?

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