PUBLIC SECTOR

The study, which will help shape future policy initiatives, showed that 71% of employers believed that veterans have a strong work ethic, whilst a vast majority of fellow employees said that veterans are resilient and would welcome working alongside them.

YouGov’s report, commissioned by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, asked more than 12,000 members of the public, as well as employers, healthcare professionals and members of the media across of the UK about their perceptions of armed forces veterans, their views on how veterans are treated after they leave service, and their opinion on veterans are portrayed in the media

Employers also highlighted that there are significant potential benefits from using the skills that veterans have acquired in order to fulfil skill gaps across many industries.

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Johnny Mercer said: “Whilst the majority of veterans transition seamlessly to civilian life, some need additional help. This study will be vital to shaping our strategy to get our veterans into work after their time serving this country.

“It shows the willingness of employers across the country to take full advantage of the opportunity that these skilled individuals can provide.”

The report also makes a number of recommendations, including stepping up working with employers to provide them with more information and guidance, particularly focussing on the diverse range of skills and benefits ex-serveice personnel can bring to employers. The report also says that misconceptions around mental health in the veteran community should be tackled, with more communications around the challenges veterans do and do not face.