Advance Spring Summer 2020

www.advancemagazine.co.uk

THE RESETTLEMENT MAGAZINE ISSUE TEN SPRING / SUMMER 2020

VE DAY 75

A WWII veteran remembers Victory in Europe

FRONTLINE BUSINESS

Use your skills to become your own boss

LIFE WITHOUT BARRIERS

Veteran Simon Brown discusses adapting to disability when transitioning to civvy street

PTSD AWARE

What more can GPs do to support veteran mental health?

INTO EMPLOYMENT

A career expert reveals how to get into civilian employment

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WELCOME

THE RESETTLEMENT MAGAZINE

PUBLISHER Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITOR Lorne Gillies lorne.gillies@dcpublishing.co.uk STAFF WRITERS Emma Storr emma.storr@dcpublishing.co.uk Saskia Harper saskia.harper@dcpublishing.co.uk DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Lucy Baillie lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.uk SALES Danny McGonigle danny.mcgonigle@dcpublishing.co.uk Joe Johnston joe.johnston@dcpublishing.co.uk ADVANCE MAGAZINE www.advancemagazine.co.uk

DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG Tel: 0844 249 9007 @AdvanceMagUK

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Hello, and welcome to the first issue of Advance for 2020!

L

eaving the Armed Forces is a significant life change, and there’s no denying that the world around us is changing with the current COVID-19 situation. But, here at Advance, we are committed to ensuring the pages of this magazine are filled with a wealth of information to help in your transition – and understanding the world around us.

There are many initiatives in place to get you integrated with the civilian community or meeting fellow ex-service personnel. On page 9 we spoke to Rachel Williamson, who was appointed Team UK captain for the 2020 Invictus Games, which have now been postponed to 2021. Rachel discussed the importance of getting involved with events such as the Games to aid rehabilitation.

Created to support injured, sick and wounded veterans the Invictus Games has had great success in allowing veterans to connect with others in a similar situation. And adapting to disability after leaving the Armed Forces may be a reality. Head to page 28 to read about the charities providing support if you’re resettling with an acquired disability.

Understanding your finances (page 14) from your pension to benefits, finding accommodation (page 16) or getting ready to ace an interview and preparing for a new career, on page 18, we’re ensuring when the time comes to leave service you are prepared for the next stage in your life.

All this plus much more lies ahead. Make sure to let me know what you thought of this issue, or what you would like to see more of, by contacting me at editor@dcpublishing.co.uk Until next time.

DON’T MISS 18 CLIMBING THE CAREER LADDER Finding a new career after leaving the Forces comes with many questions, an expert shares her top tips on how to get back on track.

21 FRONTLINE OF BUSINESS Your skills are perfect for the world of business and becoming an entrepreneur. Learn more from those who have had success.

25 PTSD AWARE Veteran mental health can be complicated to diagnose, leaving people without help.

One veteran shares his thoughts on the medical changes necessary.

KEEP UP TO DATE Catch up on all the latest news on Twitter, @AdvanceMagUK

COVER PIC: ©SLATER KING

Lorne Gillies, Editor

If you’d like a free copy of Advance delivered to your door, head to our website.

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©DC Publishing Ltd 2020. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of DC Publishing Ltd. The publisher takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers within the publication.

Every effort has been made to ensure that information is accurate; while dates and prices are correct at time of going to print, DC Publishing Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors.

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3

WHAT’S INSIDE

CONTENTS SPOTLIGHT

6 HONOURING VE DAY 75

28

VE Day is an important date in the military calendar, a gunner from WWII reveals more.

WELLBEING 25 PTSD AWARE

Team UK captain, Rachel Williamson shares why events such as the Invictus Games are critical for veterans.

What more needs to be done to understand veteran mental health?

9

TRAINING 11 ONLINE LEARNING

Education can take place from the comfort of your own home. Don’t miss our top online providers and what qualifications you could gain.

WORK

18 CLIMBING THE CAREER LADDER

Mastering your CV to acing an interview, a careers specialist gets you ready for civilian work.

HOUSING 16 OVER THE THRESHOLD From renting to housing associations, we look at the services bringing you home.

FINANCE 14 ON THE MONEY

Top tips on managing your money after resettlement.

4

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Adapting to disability on civvy street.

The charities providing guidance.

9 I AM INVICTUS

Utilise your Armed Forces skillset by starting your own business – it’s time to clock in.

28 LIFE WITHOUT BARRIERS 30 A HELPING HAND

VOICES

21 FRONTLINE OF BUSINESS

30 SUPPORT

21 6

REGULARS | RESERVES | VETERANS | FAMILIES

DONATE

TO OUR FORCES, VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES Established in 1885, SSAFA the Armed Forces charity, is the UK’s oldest tri-service military charity and is still supporting serving personnel, veterans and their families today.

TO DONATE VISIT ssafa.org.uk/donate

Registered as a charity in England and Wales Number 210760 in Scotland Number SC038056 and in Republic of Ireland Number 20202001. Established 1885.

HONOURING

VE DAY 75

Marking 75 years since Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 May 2020, it’s time to remember those who served during WWII. With over 100 years’ experience supporting veterans, SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, helped then and now

O

n 8 May 1945 celebrations broke out across Europe, marking the end of World War II in Europe. Now, 75 years after the occasion, it is more important than ever to remember the sacrifices of those who served for their country.

“The service and the sacrifice of those who fought for nearly six years during World War II, that protected our rights and our liberty, must never be forgotten,” stresses Sir Andrew Gregory, chief executive at SSAFA.

UNITE

On VE Day, SSAFA hopes to bring the nation together to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this date.

“Around the country, we’ll be encouraging the Nation to take a moment to reflect and commemorate VE Day 75. We hope to be sharing as Kath Tozer

6

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many stories from the day as possible to bring this story alive to the people today,” explains Andrew.

REFLECTION

Andrew will mark the 75year anniversary of VE Day by remembering his own military career and reflecting on the continuing need for vigilance and courage when our freedoms are challenged.

“On VE Day in 1945, my mother was serving in the Royal Navy and was based just outside Paris in large headquarters; my father, who was serving in the Royal Regiment of Artillery, was still in hospital having been badly wounded nearly a year before in Normandy on D Day,” says Andrew. “I will remember them, and those they served alongside – particularly those who made the

ultimate sacrifice, with great pride.”

If you are at home on 8 May, it doesn’t mean you can’t take part in the commemorations, Andrew says: “We’re encouraging the public, and especially veterans, to take a moment to reflect upon the events of the past and celebrate the freedoms that we enjoy today.”

CONTINUED CARE

Along with the celebrations, SSAFA is marking the day by continuing to provide life-changing support to the charity’s beneficiaries.

One veteran who has been supported by SSAFA is Private Kath Tozer who joined the ATS as a gunner in January 1941 at the age of 17. Kath defended anti-aircraft bases on the home front until the end of the way, defending the public against German bombs.

“I joined wanting to be a gunner defending the Ack-Ack bases,” remembers Kath. “I wanted to do my bit for the country.”

With duties ranging from cookhouse to guard duties, Kath and her comrades worked in a 24-hour pattern, moving all over the country to different sites during her service.

“I had 16 transfers in five years,” reveals Kath. “We were defending the country against Hitler, it was quite incessant.”

During her time with the ATS, Kath realised the need for determination and strength, she says: “A lot of terrible things happened – like they do today, but you had to carry on and be and strong.”

PIC: © SSAFA

SPOTLIGHT

Kath and Harry

HAPPINESS

Along with trying times, Kath still carries fond memories of her time serving having met different people from ally nations around the world.

Kath also met her husband, Bill, during the war while he was on leave from the Navy.

“It was awful being away from him when he was at sea,” remembers Kath.

“I met the love of my life in a time that was harrowing.

“I found moments of happiness in that time, as soon as I saw him, I fell for him, he was like Steve McQueen.”

Kath and Bill went on to spend 70 years together, starting a family after the war. Kath now heads up five generations. Today, Kath still remembers the unforgettable atmosphere when the news broke on VE Day. “I went to the Town Hall, all the bands and drums were going – to think the war in Europe was over and we could all go back to civvy street,”

recalls Kath. “Thousands were on the street, I never saw so many people.”

“It was very exciting: everyone was screaming, shouting, laughing and making merry, it was wonderful,” continues Kath. “I used to drink then, it was so full it took an hour to get a pint.”

APPRECIATION

On VE Day, Kath hopes other people will sit and think about that time and know that veterans like her tried to make it a better world.

Decades after the war, Kath met SSAFA divisional secretary Harry Ellis, the two quickly became friends and she shared her stories with him.

Harry went on to help Kath get her war pension.

“I think SSAFA and Harry are wonderful – they are people who give up their spare time to help people,” emphasises Kath. “I always wish I was in a position to help people more.

“If anyone can help it is SSAFA

Thousands were on the street, I never saw so many people. Everyone was screaming, shouting, laughing and making merry, it was wonderful and people like Harry, I think it is wonderful they look after the veterans and keep us in mind.”

On VE Day 75 it is an opportunity to celebrate and remember comrades that dedicated their lives. n

FIND OUT MORE To find out more about SSAFA or access support, head to SSAFA.org.uk or contact Forcesline on 0800 731 4880.

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7

SUPPORTING SERVING AND FORMER MEMBERS OF THE RAF AND THEIR FAMILIES

WE CAN HELP WITH TRANSITION TO CIVILIAN LIFE FREE CALL 0300 102 1919 rafbf.org/transition

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The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109)

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VOICES

I AM INVICTUS

The Invictus Games may have been postponed, but the importance of the Games is still felt amongst the Armed Forces community. Team UK captain for 2020, Rachel Williamson, spoke about the power of the Games

S

ince the original event in 2014, the Invictus Games have been a highlight of the Armed Forces community’s calendar. Although plans for the Invictus Games 2020 The Hague have been postponed until May or July 2021 – organisers are yet to set a date at time of going to print – the importance of the Games is not lost.

In October 2019, it was announced that Rachel Williamson, who served in the RAF from 2007 to 2018, would captain Team UK throughout their time at the 2020 Games. As Team UK prepared to train for The Hague, Rachel Williamson spoke about becoming team captain during her resettlement.

…you’re not alone in your journey and there’s always someone going through something similar

CAPTAIN

PIC: © HELP FOR HEROES

“The Invictus Games has absolutely changed my life,” Rachel enthuses. “I couldn’t believe it when I found out I was going to be the Team UK captain – I’m still getting used to hearing it.”

Bringing together wounded, injured and sick (WIS) veterans and serving personnel from around the world, Rachel is responsible for supporting Team UK members, and keeping them motivated during the Games.

CONFIDENCE

One of the important aspects of the Games that sets it apart from other sporting competitions is the lack of emphasis on winning. Instead, the focus is on pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, to rebuild confidence.

“When you compete at the Invictus Games, you haven’t got that performance pressure,” emphasises Rachel. “You can just turn up and enjoy yourself. There’s nothing else like it, and it’s nothing to do with performance at all. The Games are a whole new platform to get involved with sport.”

From archery and athletics to sitting volleyball and swimming, the opportunities to get involved with the Games are endless, and encourage many to push themselves to get involved with sport at home, too.

TRANSFORMATION

You don’t have to be competing at the Games to enjoy the benefits that sport can bring: it can not only be a useful tool in physical rehabilitation, but also improve mental health and reduce levels of anxiety and depression. It’s for this reason that taking part in sport during or after service can have such a transformational effect.

“Sometimes, when you’re going through resettlement or rehabilitation, it’s easy to think you’re the only one going through your journey,” Rachel explains. “But being at the Invictus Games and seeing all the competitors

from all the different nations is amazing. It reminds you that you’re not alone in your journey and there’s always someone going through something similar.”

With no experience necessary, the Invictus Games is open to any WIS veteran who want to push themself and try their hand at a new sport. n

FIND OUT MORE Follow the updates on the rescheduled Invictus Games at, invictusgamesfoundation.org

www.advancemagazine.co.uk

9

Military Veterans Opportunities

Further information is available at careers.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk

Just left or leaving the Armed Services?

Know what you want to pursue as a career, or looking for ideas?

We recognise the current difďƒžcult employment situation, and are actively supporting a range of people to gain or get back into employment. We value the transferable skills that armed service personnel have acquired so far in their careers, but also offer courses to help individuals re-train and move into a different area of work.

For further information on current vacancies and to apply please visit www.jobs.scot.nhs.uk, selecting NHS Lothian from the drop down list of NHS Employers. Further information of alternative ways to gain experience or access to education programmes in NHS Lothian is also available at www.careers.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk

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TRAINING

ONLINE

LEARNING Leaving the Armed Forces is an exciting time to further broaden your horizons and skillset. Going online to gain qualifications ahead of leaving service or after returning to civvy street could see you reach new heights in your civilian career

GOING ONLINE Living in the digital age has brought us many benefits, and learning a new skill or getting a qualification online is just one such benefit. In the current climate where universities are closing during the current COVID-19 pandemic, online and distance learning is becoming even more popular with many courses and degrees available to be obtained online.

Transitioning back to civvy street comes with a large to do list, so flexibility is essential. And this is where going online can be seen as a great benefit. Many online learning providers are incredibly flexible with a variety of long and short-term courses available. Alongside being flexible, online learning can let you earn whilst you learn. Having a temporary or part time job will mean you are still bringing in an income, but also have the opportunity to learn or finish course work when you are not working contracted hours.

An added bonus: many organisations and learning providers are moving to provide online courses alongside in-house training or independent to learning in the classroom. Insights (www.insights-pm.com) has been providing training courses since 1996, and have recently launched online sessions. An Accredited Training Organisation using PRINCE2, MSP, Management of Risk and ITIL products, their new online course could see you learning more about project management.

The PRINCE2 Project Management Training has three levels: foundation; foundation and practitioner; or practitioner upgrade. All courses are online and the price includes your final exam. From online specific courses to universities and colleges providing a service: it’s time to learn.

‘THE COLLEGE’ There are many dedicated services and education providers helping veterans’ transition with ease. And, one such location is The College for Military Veterans and Emergency Services (CMVES) (cmves.org.uk), often referred to as simply, the College.

Created by the minds of both Regular

and Reservist Armed Forces personnel, the veteran community and military families.

Providing support on resettlement, starting a civilian career, becoming your own boss all the way to getting qualified: the College is a great educational tool. Allowing you to work and study respectively, the College is on hand to help if you have a career change in mind or are looking for additional support.

From running workshops for you to obtain GCSEs to matching your current and new qualifications to the best career to meet your skillset, you are sure to get the right guidance to excel.

Situated in Preston, simply contact the College if you are keen to retrain on 01772 894039. www.advancemagazine.co.uk

11

TRAINING

OPEN UNIVERSITY The Open University (www.open.ac.uk) provides a wealth of undergraduate and postgraduate courses that can be completed remotely. From distance learning or online courses, studying with The Open University (OU) can see you learning from home or in available classroom-based universities.

If you’re considering starting your own business (don’t miss our top industry advice on page 21) or retraining completely: online courses from the OU can help propel your career. Engineering to counselling, criminology or law, health sciences and language: the OU has the course and subject to meet your needs.

And, did you know: Amazon’s Kindle Store has many educational books that can be downloaded for free from the OU. Yes, your reading list could be a lot cheaper than first anticipated with this excellent service. Reading tools include understanding creative writing and critical reading, learning to code for data analysts all the way to leadership during turbulent times or health and fitness.

Plus, the OU has a specific grant scheme available for veterans who have acquired a disability. The Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship is open to those who have been injured, or due to, military service. Providing 50 scholarships each year, your fees could be waived for a maximum of 120 credits per seasonal academic year up to the maximum of 360 credits – equivalent to a full honours degree.

Applications for the scholarship opened on 18 March 2020 and closes at midnight on 30 June 2020, with successful candidates being selected at random on 3 July 2020.

Did you know: Amazon’s Kindle Store has many educational books that can be downloaded for free from the OU 12

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ELCAS Preparing to leave the Armed Forces, there may be certain ELCAS accredited training courses that you can get involved with. ELCAS, or the Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme, are qualifications that can be undertaken in the workplace, whilst you are still serving, or also online.

The MoD must approve a course before it becomes part of the ELCAS list, but with an accredited ELCAS course you could be eligible for funding. To be eligible for funding you will need to put in a completed claim form on the ELCAS website (www.enhancedlearningcredits.com), and as a service leaver you may also be eligible to claim under the Joint Funding Initiative – more information is available from the ELCAS website.

With ELCAS you can make three ELC claims, but only one claim can be

submitted in a financial year. However, if you have served between six and eight years, you will be eligible to put in three claims together to ensure you are able to undertake all the qualifications possible with relevant funding.

IT Online Learning (www. itonlinelearning.com) run various ELCAS approved courses that can be undertaken remotely. Similarly, Business Gateway (www.bgateway. com) have several online tutorials if you are looking to start your own business; or The Training Centre (www.the-training-centre.com) has a wealth of live online and interactive learning options.

Before you know it, you’ll be fully qualified and ready to take control of your new civilian career and have the best career change possible. n

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FINANCE

ON THE MONEY

When leaving the Armed Forces, finances might be a continuing concern or cause of worry, especially when looking for a new job or home. We explain how to claim your pension if you are at retirement age and what benefits you could be entitled to

PENSIONS All members of the Armed Forces are automatically enrolled in the Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS).

Unlike other pensions, you don’t pay contributions towards this: to reflect the unique sacrifice you have provided for your country, the scheme is paid from the public purse.

Your pension could be provided to you after you’ve left the Armed Forces or when you retire and it does not affect your state pension. In order to receive the pension, you must have served for at least two years.

If you serve until you are 60, your pension becomes payable immediately, otherwise it won’t be payable until state pension age.

The only exception to this is if you are unable to serve for your full career.

If you have completed 20 years’ service and are aged 40 or over, you could be entitled to an income from the pension scheme.

The amount of your pension will depend on your rank, your length of service and how old you were when you joined. You could also have different pension schemes depending on when you signed up for service. It is easy to estimate your pension online or by post using the Armed Forces Pension 14

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The amount of your pension will depend on your rank, your length of service and how old you were when you joined Calculator (www.gov.uk).

For more advice and information about the AFPS, contact the Forces Pension Society (www.forcespensionsociety.org).

BENEFITS After leaving the Armed Forces you could claim certain benefits if you are struggling to find steady work, looking for somewhere to live or need extra support due to illness or injury. This includes veteran-specific benefits as well as benefits available to everyone.

If you have an injury or illness caused by service in the Armed Forces that occurred on or after 6 April 2005, you could be entitled to money from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme.

The scheme consists of weekly

payments and lump sum payments, with weekly payments often referred to as Guaranteed Income Payment. The amount of money you receive depends on how severely you have been hurt or disabled, and your age.

The Armed Forces Independence Payment could also help you if an injury as a result of service has resulted in extra costs for you. The benefit is paid at a rate of £148.85 per week. This is the equivalent of the enhanced rate of Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or the highest rate of Disabled Living Allowance (DLA), but is only available to ex-Forces personnel.

This benefit isn’t means tested so you can apply regardless of your current financial situation.

Along with Armed Forces specific benefits, you could also apply for Universal Credit, Jobseeker’s Allowance or Housing Benefit. For more information on benefits visit the UK Government website and speak to Veterans UK. ■

FIND OUT MORE

For further advice and support with finances when you leave the Armed Forces, contact the Money Advice Service (www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk).

Wherever you served Wherever you work We can help We are Community. The modern union for a changing world.

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HOUSING

PROPERTY

One of the most important aspects of housing on civvy street to be aware of is that your rent, mortgage or bills will not automatically be deducted from your wage. For this reason, understanding how to budget and manage your rent or bills with your new income is imperative to ensure you always have a roof over your head.

Renting might be the best way for you to get accommodation upon leaving your time in service.

Considering your income, any savings and benefits you are entitled to (learn more on page 14) finding an affordable home to rent is imperative. MoneyForce (support. veteransgateway.org.uk) is on hand to help you and any dependents to manage money to ensure important outgoings, such as rent payments, can be met.

When you know your release date from the Armed Forces, the MoD’s Joint Service Housing Advice (JSHAO) (www.gov.uk) is a critical tool.

Providing advice and information on moving into civilian accommodation and assisting on the transition to civilian life, you can also apply for social housing ahead of leaving service.

HOMELESSNESS

OVER THE THRESHOLD Knowing you have accommodation arranged as you prepare to transition into civilian life can make the process much smoother. There is a lot to consider, but assistance and schemes are available to welcome you home

Unfortunately, homelessness is an issue that is experienced by some ex-service personnel. Haig Housing (www.haighousing.org.uk) has worked amongst the veteran community is, to help veterans experiencing thankfully, reducing, but with homelessness to get into challenges coming to terms rented accommodation.

Remember with civilian life, mental The charity is committed your rent or health conditions and to bringing housing mortgage isolation, homelessness is options that are accessible, payments will not still an issue. But there is affordable and can leave automatically be help on hand. people with a regained

deducted from

sense of camaraderie living your pay beside fellow veterans.

Haig provides housing Regardless of how prepared opportunities across the UK, you are, organised or financially with applications continually stable, anyone can find themselves open on their website. The Royal falling on hard times. If this were British Legion (www.britishlegion. to occur, there are a multitude of org.uk), Shelter (www.shelter.org. charities on hand to provide veteran uk), and Help 4 Homeless Veterans specific accommodation. The Cobeso (help4homelessveterans.org) are Housing Cluster – created from a two additional charities working to range of charitable and social housing get people off the streets and in to organisations – works to open the housing were possible. Homelessness

CHARITIES

16

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doors to specialist hostels, supported housing and shorthold tenancies.

Formed with the expertise and dedication of 30 veterans’ housing organisations and charities, you are sure to find a clear pathway into safe, affordable accommodation regardless of your relationship and familial status. Veterans’ Gateway (0808 802 1212) is accessible 24/7 with housing specialists on hand through their helpline. ■

FIND OUT MORE Further information on housing guidance is available from Veterans’ Gateway (www.veteransgateway.org. uk) and the UK Government (www.gov.uk).

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W

hen looking for a job after leaving the Armed Forces, there’s a lot to consider: how do your skills translate to the civilian workplace? What type of roles are you well-suited towards? And even, where do you get started?

Though it can be daunting to think about your professional life after the military, there’s plenty of support on hand to help you into a civilian career.

RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity is just one organisation helping veterans on the road to civvy employment. With dedicated advisors, the charity can provide support including job matching, training advice, CV and interview tips, as well as expert industry knowledge, to help you get a foot in the door with one of their employers.

“Some of the biggest challenges that veterans face when looking for civilian employment is recognising their own worth and their transferable skills, because it may be second nature in the military,” explains Kate Hughes, regional employment advisor at the RFEA.

CLIMBING THE

CAREER

Ladder

Finding work on civvy street is essential when preparing to leave the Armed Forces. An expert speaks to Advance providing her top advice, to help you on the road to civvy employment

CV

The key to any job application is a concise, well-organised CV. Your CV is the first impression an employer gets of you, so it’s vital that you take the time and effort to make it specific to individual applications.

“Your CV has to be tailored each time,” Kate advises. “It’s a personal profile and overview. Bullet points are great because an employer can glance at that quickly in terms of shortlisting.

Tell the employer not only what you do, but how you achieve your tasks: that’s what the employer is looking for.”

Alongside your CV, an employer may ask for a cover letter: this is your opportunity to really sell yourself, and demonstrate why you deserve an interview. It’s also a chance to showcase a bit of your personality, which can help you progress to the next level of the application.

INTERVIEW

Preparing for a job interview can be nerve wracking, particularly if you’ve never done one before, but experts are always available to provide you with 18

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the advice you need for a successful meeting with a prospective employer.

“A lot of people think they can’t prepare for an interview, but there’s so much you can do,” says Kate. “There will always be a question about why you want the role and what you can bring to the workplace. I always tell my clients to prepare those answers, because if you can nail those first questions, it helps you to build confidence in the interview from the outset.”

As part of your preparation, it can be a good idea to look at your military experience and try to translate the jargon into terms that civilian employers will be able to understand.

The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) – the official Ministry of Defence provider of Armed Forces resettlement

Remember that being ex-military is an advantage where you can offer more to a company than most civilians can

WORK

FINDING YOUR DREAM JOB

– recommends translating sergeant to team leader, officer to manager, and soldiers or sailors to staff or employees.

This will enable you to speak clearly at your interview, without any confusion or unnecessary additional stress when you’re already under pressure.

Regardless of whether you’re offered the role or not, interviews are great experience and each one you attend is helping you get closer to the right job for you.

SKILLS Service leavers have numerous transferable skills – assets that employers want in their workforce.

“Veterans have strong communication skills as well as being able to identify a problem and pass

that up the chain of command,” says Kate. “Shifting priorities and being able to deal with complaints can be used in many organisations. All of that will build up to making sure the organisation can achieve their goals, and these skills can be taken into any industry.”

From teamwork and problem solving, to resilience and leadership, the skills you’ve gained in the Armed Forces are assets, and should be demonstrated as such throughout the job search.

So, if you’ve found the right role for you and want some help applying, or are just at the start of your job hunt, don’t worry – there’s support available every step of the way. You’ll be climbing back onto the career ladder in no time. ■

No matter if you leave the military at 25 or 55, you may want to explore the employment opportunities available to you in your civilian life, and the support available to get you there.

Neil Parkin was supported into employment by the RFEA, and as a result, is currently working as a manager for Royal Mail.

“It’s an interesting role with lots of diversity and a lot of new challenges,” Neil explains. “The job is all about managing people, while also hitting business targets and expectations.

“As veterans, we have the ability to keep a calm and cool head while hitting targets and managing people. This is a skill that most ex-military take for granted, but it’s a skill that sets us apart from our civilian counterparts. I think the best way forward is to keep calm and just be yourself without being over confident.”

Though it can be daunting to think about how your military experience will translate onto the civilian market, Neil – and many employers – believes this to be an asset.

Neil adds: “Remember that being ex-military is an advantage where you can offer more to a company than most civilians can. Believe in yourself, and be confident in your ability and what you bring to the party.”

FIND OUT MORE Further advice can be found from CTP (www.ctp.org.uk) and RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity (www.rfea.org.uk).

www.advancemagazine.co.uk

19

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WORK

BUSINESS THE FRONTLINE OF

If you’re considering your career prospects after leaving the Armed Forces, launching your own business is an option that’s particularly well-suited to your skillset.

Veteran entrepreneurs share their experiences of turning to business

0

ne of the best ways to take control of your career when you return to civvy street is from launching your own business.

A move that can seem risky and daunting without the right support can quickly turn into a reward, as you take charge of your working life.

EMPOWER

Alice Bromage joined the military in 1995, leaving in 2016 to start her own business, using the skills and experience gained during service to do so. She now mentors and coaches others to follow in her footsteps through her business, Empowering Success.

“When you’re leaving the Armed Forces, it’s quite daunting to work out what your skillset is,” Alice recalls. “I’d already started doing coaching and mentoring when I was still serving. In the unit I was part of, 11 out of 12 were leaving at the same time, so I was already helping people resettle, work out next stages and think about career development. Somebody told me they’d pay me to do it and that was it.”

For many veterans, the departure from service is prompted by a desire for improved work-life balance, or to have more of a say in their career, which resonates with Alice.

“Starting a business after leaving the military allows you to be the master of your own destiny,” enthuses Alice.

“It gives you the ability to say ‘yes’.

It’s very empowering to realise that if something goes wrong, it’s 100 per cent your fault. But, if it goes right, a lot of that has been because of the hard work you’ve put in.”

RETREAT

When Nick Goldsmith left the Royal Marines after 11 years serving, it was the perfect time to embark on a new adventure, together with his

wife Louise. In 2012, while Nick was still in service, they bought an area of woodland as somewhere that could act as an escape from their hectic working lives.

“When we purchased the woodland, it had no running water, no vehicle access and had been unmanaged for over 30 years,” Louise remembers.

“It was never our intention to turn this into a business. At the time Nick was experiencing complex PTSD. I was also in a highly stressful job as a detective constable in child protection.

The woodland was purchased as

somewhere we could relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of our lives. We worked hard managing the woodland and it became a beautiful, quirky retreat for us and was soon helping aid with Nick’s recovery, too.”

As a military spouse, Louise’s support was integral to launching the business and making it into the success it has become. Today, that small patch of woodland is Hidden Valley Bushcraft, providing high quality educational and recreational experiences for all ages and abilities. www.advancemagazine.co.uk

21

PIC: © SOPHIE CLAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY

WORK

Louise and Nick

Not only does the business provide bespoke adventure and survival courses, but they run a woodland kindergarten for children aged three to five and are giving back to the veteran community, too.

“The children spend the day exploring our beautiful woodland, learning and developing through nature-based activities,” explains Louise. “We also provide therapeutic woodland activities for injured military veterans with the aim to help them relax, learn new skills, build selfreliance and esteem, strengthen social bonding and move forward into the next stage of their lives. This has now become its own stand alone, not for profit organisation; The Woodland Warrior Programme.”

What started as a dream has not only become Nick and Louise’s career and source of income, but allows them to go to work every day doing something they’re truly passionate about.

GUIDANCE

Last year, in recognition of their hard work, Hidden Valley Bushcraft won an award at the Heropreneurs Awards 2019, run by veterans’ charity, Heropreneurs. The non-profit organisation provides advice, support 22

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We like to hope that some of our members will come back to us as mentors and mentoring opportunities for exservice personnel and their dependants who wish to start their own business.

Peter Mountford is the chairman of Heropreneurs and has mentored around 40 prospective business owners who have left service.

“We have a huge community of volunteers who we’ve managed to recruit over the last 10 years,” Peter says.

“Normally we find that when one of our members has a problem, they know the answer, they just need somebody that’s experienced and knowledgeable to talk it through with them. A lot of our mentors are highly experienced sounding boards.”

Heropreneurs currently has over 100 members benefitting from the advice and guidance that the charity’s 90 mentors can provide. After applying to the mentoring scheme, successful candidates will choose the mentor they’d like to work with, and they arrange monthly virtual meet ups to

discuss any issues and talk through any areas they’d like further advice on.

The charity’s services are free to use and have been the steppingstone for many veterans to enjoy a long and successful career in entrepreneurship, with many returning the favour for others following in their footsteps.

“We like to hope that some of our members will come back to us as mentors,” says Peter. “Business isn’t for the faint-hearted. Until you have it established, it can be stressful. You have to live and breathe it for a long time.”

If you’re inspired to start your own business, there’s plenty of advice, information and support available to turn your idea into reality.

“Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster,” Alice advises. “But if you believe in yourself, it will happen.”

Are you ready to take your military skills into the world of business? n FIND OUT MORE Empowering Success www.empowering-success.co.uk Heropreneurs www.heropreneurs.co.uk Hidden Valley Bushcraft www.hiddenvalleybushcraft.co.uk

Established Windscreen Repair and Glass Restoration business for sale in Maidstone, Kent A fantastic opportunity to buy a ready made business . We specialise in windscreen repair and glass/acrylic restoration.

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WELLBEING

PTSD AWARE

Mental health affects people in different ways, and reaching out for support is the hardest – yet essential – first step. Unfortunately, many ex-service personnel asking for help can be left behind by civilian medical professionals, but help is available

E

veryone has mental health, and one in four people will develop a mental health condition in a single year. Discussions around mental ill health have taken a significant step in the right direction. However, for the Armed Forces community, speaking out can be an internal battle and, for some, finding the right help is a challenge.

MEDICAL ADVICE

One of the most common forms of mental health condition for ex-service personnel is post-traumatic stress (PTSD). This can be experienced after a traumatic experience, such as seeing active combat, is stored in your memory and triggers – for example, loud noises – can leave you experiencing physical symptoms.

Panic attacks, a sense of never switching ‘off’, irritability and depression

are just some symptoms of PTSD. Reaching out for medical guidance is crucial, unfortunately, it has been recorded that only three per cent of GPs could diagnose mental health conditions in a veteran.

“Very few GPs have ever served in the military,” emphasises Dr Walter Busuttil, the medical director for veteran mental health charity, Combat Stress.

“Historically, for example, after WWII everyone knew about the military.”

Reduced awareness of the Armed Forces could be seen as a significant reason that many GPs don’t recognise how mental health conditions can differ.

For Eddie Blench, an Army veteran who served for over 13 years in countries such as the Falklands, Iraq and Northern Ireland, a lack of awareness saw Eddie live without adequate help for many years.

It’s better to educate the service personnel so when they are veterans they know where to find services UNDERSTAND

“A general GP doesn’t understand the Forces etiquette,” emphasises Eddie.

“You are built up to be the way they want you to be: a fighting machine.

Aggression becomes a natural thing in the Army, you are taught to be a killer.

“Improved understanding from medical professionals would have been a tremendous help. I have been suffering on and off for 20 years, www.advancemagazine.co.uk

25

WELLBEING

because I’ve only been diagnosed in the last two years; all that time I’ve been living a nightmare and drinking heavily.”

Eddie continues: “I was getting treated on and off for depression, and I was never diagnosed with PTSD. I tried to take my own life and I experienced manic bouts, flashbacks; it got to the stage I was so depressed it felt like I was staring at the bottom of the barrel.”

By not receiving the right diagnosis, Eddie’s experiences of severe mental health issues persisted a lot longer than necessary. And this is what charities such as Combat Stress and Dr Busuttil are working to change.

REACHING OUT

“When I started training in the Air Force in 1988/89 as a junior psychiatrist, nobody was interested in PTSD,” says Dr Busuttil. At this time the Armed Forces had limited knowledge of veteran mental health, but this has improved after research completed from veterans who served in the Falklands, Northern Ireland, Gulf War I, Iraq and Afghanistan.

Even so, reaching out for mental health guidance has its challenges.

In fact, research has shown that the average veteran who comes to Combat Stress waits about 13-14 years after they leave the military before getting help.

This figure has been reduced for those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan to four and two years, it is thought as a result of better education they receive in the military nowadays about mental ill health.

“The MoD has been doing a lot of education whilst people have been in service,” continues Dr Busuttil. “This doesn’t mean personnel will go for help whilst in service – having said that, they do come forward and know what might be wrong with them.

“With the younger veterans there is a lot more education, that is the way to go: it’s better to educate the service personnel so when they are veterans they know where to find services for themselves. To educate all the GPs is proving difficult.”

AWARENESS

The College of General Practitioners provides an e-learning service on veteran health and mental health, unfortunately, it is known that some GPs will not visit this website. In a bid to change this to ensure guidance is on hand, the MoD, Combat Stress, NHS England and the Armed Forces Commissioning Group worked together to encourage the College of General Practitioners to include a question on the membership exam on military health.

Thankfully, for veterans like Eddie, Combat Stress provides residential treatments, a PTSD Intensive Treatment Programme, alongside community support.

CAMARADERIE

After being prompted to contact Combat Stress by his wife, Eddie had residential treatment at the charity’s treatment centre Hollybush House in Ayrshire, as well as a weekly session with an occupational therapist for 12 months. The services help him to this day.

“I have a tailored programme now that helps me and I have an open door with Hollybush, or I can call them up when I need help,” emphasises Eddie. “I’m not 100 per cent, but I am in control.

I do have nightmares, too, but not as consistently as I had in the past.”

Connecting with the veteran community after coming out of service or when dealing with mental health concerns can be a lifeline. When you connect with Combat Stress, many of the staff have served or understand life in the Forces – the sense of camaraderie is palpable.

Reaching out for help can be the hardest step to take, but there are services available to provide veteran specific mental health support when you need it most. n

FIND OUT MORE

If you require support and guidance, Combat Stress (www.combatstress.org. uk) can be contacted on their helpline 0800 138 1619.

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www.advancemagazine.co.uk

Take your CV to the next level

Volunteering with the Service Cadets is not only a worthwhile and fulfilling thing to do, it also provides a fantastic opportunity for Service Leavers to improve that all-important CV. The Army Cadet Force, Air Training Corps and Sea Cadets all need enthusiastic adults to work with their young people.

This is your opportunity to make a big impact on Cadets, parents and their communities. So WHY volunteer?

Volunteering will give you opportunities to unlock your talents, develop your skills and join with an amazing mix of people.

It will also provide you with a great range of training

opportunities and a chance to gain qualifications. It will give you confidence and help you develop leadership and team-working skills which will help you move up the career ladder. You will also have the opportunity to progress up the rank structure.

Working as part of a team, volunteers develop and thrive by taking part in challenges and adventures.

The Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (HRFCA) exists to support, in a range of practical ways, Service Cadets throughout the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.

To find out more, or to get involved with Cadets as a volunteer, check out our website where you will find links to us and those we support.

www.hr fca.co.uk

CHALLENGING TIMES! Enhance your management skills with an ILM Level 5 or 7 qualification in Leadership and Management There’s no doubt that today we live in challenging times. But there’s no need to step down from the challenge of developing your skills outside your military career just because of that!

KEEP CALM AND

CARRY ON TRAINING

That’s why we believe that despite everything you need to look beyond today and secure your tomorrow.

After all, you learned a lot about the challenges of leadership in your military career. Now’s your chance to sharpen those skills in life outside and increase your credibility with civilian employers.

The ILM/CMI Leadership and Management programme is in many cases fundable by ELCAS and can be delivered by distance learning – a proven blend of interactive workshops or webinars, self-study and e-learning.

Levels 5 and 7 available, fully accredited by ILM/CMI. Get in touch today to see how a Leadership and Management qualification can help you on the path top your chosen career.

Cherith Simmons Learning and Development has been delivering Leadership and Management courses for 30 years – we can use that experience to help you fulfil your ambitions on this next stage of your career. Call or email us for more details.

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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

A

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

SUPPORT

Simon Brown

community. Being able to give back means that when I get up in the morning, I look forward to what I do.

When I have my dark days, I’ve got a reason to get through it. That’s quite a powerful tool, knowing that you’re adding value to where you are.”

PIC: ©SLATER KING

CONFIDENCE

the key ways to improve confidence in your own ability. Employers are becoming increasingly aware of the assets veterans bring to the workplace, as Simon discovered.

“I needed an employer that was empathetic to the fact I was still going through lots of surgery, so would need time off,” Simon says. “I wanted meaningful employment. I didn’t just want to be the token. I wanted something I felt I added value to.

“But, I also wanted something that was meaningful to me and giving something back to the veteran

Duncan Slater transitioned back to civvy street after 14 years serving in the RAF. Following an injury in Afghanistan, he had both legs amputated below the knee.

“I found the transition quite hard,” Duncan remembers. “I found it difficult to learn where I fitted in, and also learning what I wanted to do. I’d signed onto the military until I was 55, so in my mind, that’s what I was going to do.”

Since returning to civvy street, however, Duncan has completed a trek to the South Pole – accompanied

by Prince Harry – as well as the Marathon des Sables across the Sahara, also known as the toughest race on earth. Upon completing the race, he became the first double amputee to do so.

“That had been the biggest thing I’d done since I was injured and it was a challenge,” says Duncan. “At the end of it, I felt that I could start looking forward again. I felt I’d learned a little bit more about myself. It’s easy to write yourself off, but when you’re given a challenge and you achieve it, you think you’re capable of more than what you’ve been doing. It was an eye-opener for me. It gave me my confidence back.”

CHALLENGE

Now, Duncan is preparing to undertake the Marathon des Sables again, this time with a team from veteran’s charity, Walking With the Wounded (WWTW), to raise money for the charity as it celebrates its 10-year anniversary.

“I work part-time for WWTW, doing fundraising and talks, so I find that keeps me on my toes,” Duncan enthuses. “But, also, I can’t just keep talking about my journey to the South Pole in 2013. I need to keep doing things to keep myself current. You have to keep pushing yourself.”

Transitioning back to civilian life with a disability doesn’t have to be as daunting as it may first seem.

With plenty of help available, you’ll be supported every step of the way.

And, you never know when your own experience may be able to help someone with their own journey, too.

“Everyone’s faced with challenges,” Duncan empathises. “For me, doing something physical to raise money for other people was a great distraction.

But, even though it was a distraction, it helped me put things into perspective.

Go and do something for someone else on a positive note and you’ll quickly realise that it does you more good than you think, even though you might be going through hard times, too.” n

FIND OUT MORE Blind Veterans UK www.blindveterans.org.uk Walking With the Wounded www.walkingwiththewounded.org.uk

www.advancemagazine.co.uk

29

SUPPORT

A HELPING HAND

During your transition questions, concerns or need for clarification may arise. We highlight the important organisations supporting veterans during resettlement

DISABILITY

BLESMA, THE LIMBLESS VETERANS blesma.org 020 8590 1124 Serving the Armed Forces community since 1932, Blesma is the only charity supporting limbless veterans for the duration of their lives. Providing advice and support when it comes to prosthetics, getting or keeping active, plus financial advice to cope with disability. When you’re ready to return to work, Blesma can provide training and education, too.

HELP FOR HEROES www.helpforheroes.org.uk 0300 303 9888 If you have obtained an injury or illness whilst serving, Help for Heroes can provide vital assistance. Working alongside the Defence and Medical Rehabilitation Centre, together the centre and the charity are committed to ensuring all veterans receive the best treatment to recover.

MENTAL HEALTH

COMBAT STRESS www.combatstress.org.uk 0800 138 1619 Leading charity for veterans mental health, Combat Stress has assisted 30

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former servicemen and women to manage and overcome challenges faced from PTSD. Offering a range of services including specialist aid, online and telephone support, alongside a personalised programme, Combat Stress understands veteran specific mental health support. Learn more on page 25.

HOUSING

STOLL www.stoll.org.uk 020 7385 2110 Stoll has been on hand to give housing to vulnerable veterans, with over 250 Stoll affordable homes to rent.

The charity works to ensure all exservice personnel have a roof over their head. Stoll also works to arrange accommodation for those preparing to leave the Armed Forces, and have so far helped house 404 veterans within their nomination scheme.

COMMUNITY

SSAFA, THE ARMED FORCES CHARITY www.ssafa.org.uk Forcesline 0800 731 4880 For 135 years, SSAFA, The Armed Forces Charity has supported Regulars and Reserves. The challenges faced by the veteran community can be specialised,

and SSAFA provides guidance on physical or emotional care. Providing support and services across the UK and available through their Forcesline, the charity is on hand during your resettlement and after. Read Kath’s experience with SSAFA on page 6.

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION www.britishlegion.org.uk 0808 802 8080 Supporting the Armed Forces community, veterans and their families, the Royal British Legion is one of the longest serving military charities. From financial and employment support, physical and mental wellbeing, care and independent living to giving you expert advice: the Legion is there to help.

ABF THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY soldierscharity.org 020 7901 8900 While there is a British Army, there will be The Soldier’s Charity. This is the tagline for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity who have a vast range of guidance.

Helping young serving families cope with sudden bereavement or traumatic loss; financial support; housing; education and training, plus much more can be made available.

GO FURTHER

VOLUNTEER AS A CADET LEADER

If you’re interested in inspiring and leading the next generation – and want to build your own leadership and team working skills – why not take a look at the Army Cadets.

If you’ve got the potential we’ll provide all the training you need (and cover your expenses for attending training, annual camp and for a number of other duties).

Find out more at armycadets.com/volunteer-with-us

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