Our impact 2022

The Forces Employment Charity exists to provide life-long, life-changing support, job opportunities and training to Service leavers, reservists, veterans and their families, irrespective of circumstances, rank, length of service or reason for leaving.

Founded in 1885 and operating across the UK, we have the specialist knowledge and understanding to bridge the gap between military life and civilian employment. We work in partnership with other organisations and employers who, like us, respect and value the unique qualities and abilities of all those who have served.

The Officers’ Association (OA) and RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity (RFEA) worked together to create a single charity providing support to all Service leavers, veterans, reservists, and their families throughout the UK, whatever their circumstances, rank, length of service or reasons for leaving.

The Forces Employment Charity reflects the purpose and heritage of the two organisations. Historically, the OA existed to help officers, and RFEA supported veterans and Service leavers of all ranks. Both charities were driven by a desire to achieve the best outcomes for their beneficiaries. This objective will underpin the new charity’s direction, building on the individual successes of the OA and RFEA, and turbocharging the two organisations’ work to continue transforming the lives of military personnel for the next century and beyond.

The combination enables us to focus on the long-term success of our clients, working to support both those who are unemployed into employment and everybody in the Armed Forces community to lead fulfilling working lives.