2 minute read
Finding his way on Civvy Street after leaving the Armed Forces
MIKE’S STORY
WE HAD THE PLEASURE OF SPEAKING WITH MIKE ABOUT THE IMPACT OF THE SUPPORT OF RBLI AND EMPLOYMENT UPON HIS LIFE AFTER LEAVING THE ARMED FORCES.
Mike has lived in the veteran village for over two decades and has recently become involved as an employee at Britain’s Bravest
Manufacturing Company.
While struggling with his mental health, Mike told us that he knew that the way forward was helping himself, and part of that was meaningful employment. “To get a why, why get up?”
Mike began by working part-time in the factory. After hearing of an available position in metal work, he took the step to go through the application process and was successful. In his new role, Mike will cut, rivet, put channels on, and do “anything to do with metal to prepare it before vinyl is applied to it.”
He told us how beneficial employment at the factory has been. When asked if the role had helped him, Mike told us: “Definitely. It really has. There’s days when it’s really challenging, but without a doubt it’s definitely been good. It’s really about helping yourself.” Mike expressed how the uniqueness of employment at Britain’s Bravest Manufacturing Company helps veterans like him to stay in employment: “What’s good here is there’s plenty of support. If I go through down days there is support here where maybe an everyday employer wouldn’t be able to give me that.”
Work in the factory also helps veterans to rebuild skills; for Mike, the community and the everyday conversation with people has transformed and continues to strengthen his communication skills.
“Prior to working here I spent a lot of time at home and I wasn’t really communicating, but the day-to-day interaction with people and a little bit of pressure definitely helps.”
The impact of employment through RBLI also produces longer term goals for veterans. Mike believes that “working here helps my home life and if I can get those communication skills here, I can use them at other places.” Now, Mike’s goals are centred around confidence, self-worth and well being.
REMEMBERING Women In War
ELGIN, Moray
STEPPS, Lanarkshire
THROCKLEY, Newcastle upon Tyne
These iconic Women in War figures are available to buy via our online shop:
rbli.shop
MICKLEFIELD, Leeds
HIGHGATE, Birmingham
BARRY, South Glamorgan
LAUNCESTON, Cornwall
In May, Barratt and David Wilson Homes supported the Tommy Club by installing full-size Women in War figures at their developments for VE Day. The ‘Women in War’ campaign highlighted the efforts of women – both in military and civilian occupations – during times of conflict.
More than 100,000 joined the women’s branches of Britain’s military services during the First World War. It was not until 1948 that the Women’s Service Act was passed, allowing for permanent peacetime roles for women in Britain’s armed services.
“We are immensely
proud to have joined forces once again with Barratt Developments – this time to acknowledge the tremendous contribution of women to the British Armed Forces.”
Lisa Farmer Chief Executive, RBLI
