Understanding Your Rights and Support Networks

As a Reservist in the UK, you have specific legal protections and support mechanisms in place. Under the Reserve Forces (Safeguard of Employment) Act 1985, you’re entitled to various rights and protections that help maintain your civilian career while serving. Understanding these rights is crucial for effectively managing your dual career path.

Legal Framework Deep Dive:

Reserve Forces Act 1996 Key Provisions:

• Call-out powers and procedures
• Training commitments and obligations
• Employment protection measures
• Financial assistance regulations

Official guidance: Reserve Forces Act Guide

Employment Protection:

• Guaranteed return to employment
• Protection against unfair dismissal
• Pension rights continuation
• Annual leave accrual during service

Detailed resources: Employment Rights Guide

Training and Development Support

Understanding the training pathways available through our partnerships is essential for career progression. The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) offers comprehensive support specifically designed for Reservists:

Access to Training: Through the CTP, you can access:

• Enhanced Learning Credits for qualifications
• Professional certification programmes
• Industry-specific training
• Leadership development courses

Funding Support: Various funding streams are available:

• Standard Learning Credits (SLC)
• Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC)
• Individual Training Grants
• Professional Development Opportunities

Official training resources:

• CTP Training Portal
• ELCAS Learning Credits
• Forces Training Directory

Employer Relations and Support

Building strong relationships with employers while maintaining military commitments requires clear communication and understanding. The Armed Forces Covenant provides a framework for employer support:

Employers should:

• Provide reasonable time off for training
• Support mobilisation requirements
• Maintain employment benefits
• Consider flexible working arrangements

Support Resources for Employers:

• Employer Recognition Scheme
• Employer Toolkit
• Financial Support Guide

Next Steps

1. Book a career consultation
2. Join our LinkedIn community
3. Connect with successful Reservists
4. Access our partner resources below

Related Resources

Official Military Support

• Career Transition Partnership (CTP)
• Armed Forces Covenant
• Reserve Forces and Cadets Association
• Ministry of Defence – Reserves Information

Employment Support

• RFEA – The Forces Employment Charity
• Officers’ Association
• SaluteMyJob
• Forces Families Jobs

Training and Education

• Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS)
• Standard Learning Credits (SLC)
• Defence Academy
• Free Online Courses for Veterans

Financial Support

• Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations
• Veterans’ Gateway Financial Support
• Armed Forces Pension Scheme

Mental Health and Wellbeing

• Combat Stress
• Help for Heroes
• SSAFA – The Armed Forces Charity
• Veterans’ Mental Health TIL Service

Professional Networks

• Forces Network
• British Forces Resettlement Services
• Royal British Legion Industries
• Veterans UK

Employer Resources

• Employer Recognition Scheme
• Employer Toolkit
• Supporting Reservist Employees
• Financial Support for Employers

Family Support

• Naval Families Federation
• Army Families Federation
• RAF Families Federation
• Forces Children’s Trust

Housing and Accommodation

• Joint Service Housing Advice Office
• Forces Help to Buy
• Military Accommodation

Legal Support

• Forces Law
• Armed Forces Legal Action
• Reserve Forces Law