Life without
BARRIERS When leaving the military with a disability, it can be daunting to think about the future, but support is available every step of the way. Two veterans explain the importance of reaching out when you return to civvy street
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fter acquiring a combatrelated disability, the road back to civvy street may look daunting, which is completely normal. Not only do you have to navigate the highs and lows of the transition, but you’re also learning to adjust to life with a physical disability. No matter what your journey back to civilian life looks like, there’s support available to help you make a success of it.
TRANSITION
Since 1915, Blind Veterans UK has been supporting veterans who have vision loss on their journey back to civvy street. From rehabilitation and training, to clubs and societies, the charity provides invaluable support to veterans experiencing vision loss. Simon Brown acquired a visual impairment after being injured while serving in Iraq. Following his transition back to civvy street, he now works in the communications department of Blind Veterans UK. “I knew my career was over because of the severity of the injuries, so I was very much aware that I needed to look at transitioning,” Simon explains. “It was a blow because it felt like all the qualifications I had were now useless and everything I’d done wasn’t really 28
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transferable because of my vision loss.” It’s normal to feel worried about how your experience and qualifications will transfer into the civilian market, especially if you need opportunities that take your acquired disability into account. But, dedicated services are ensuring there are no barriers in your way. “As a beneficiary [of Blind Veterans UK], I was at a loose end at that transition period because of my disability,” remembers Simon. “I volunteered with the charity for a
couple of years and got to know the staff. When the job opportunity came up, the staff knew this was the kind of role I was capable of. They knew my strengths and weaknesses because I’d used that time wisely, building up a reputation for what I could and couldn’t do.”
VALUE Finding a role that values your military skills and makes reasonable adjustments, so you can do your job to the best of your ability, is one of
