Breaking Down Transition Barriers: Practical Solutions for Service Leavers

Recent research from Forces in Mind Trust shows that only 43.2% of service leavers feel prepared for civilian life. With over 16,250 personnel leaving the armed forces annually, addressing transition challenges is crucial for both individual and economic success.

Understanding the Civilian Job Market

The civilian job market operates differently from military career progression. Research from the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) indicates that structured networking and industry engagement significantly improve employment outcomes.

Key Resources:

Career Transition Partnership: https://www.ctp.org.uk/
Forces Employment Charity: https://www.forcesemployment.org.uk/
LinkedIn Military Community: https://socialimpact.linkedin.com/programs/veterans

Cultural Adaptation

The Forces in Mind Trust’s Continue to Work study highlights that cultural adaptation is a primary challenge. Successful strategies include:

Engaging with veteran employee resource groups
Understanding civilian workplace dynamics
Adapting communication styles
Building professional networks

Resources:

Veterans Gateway: https://www.veteransgateway.org.uk/
Armed Forces Covenant: https://www.armedforcescovenant.gov.uk/
CIPD Veterans Employment Guidelines: https://www.cipd.co.uk/knowledge/fundamentals/people/recruitment/armed-forces-factsheet

Skills Translation

According to CIPD research, effective skills translation increases employment success rates by up to 80%. Focus on:

Transferable Skills Resources:

Military Skills Translator: https://www.ctp.org.uk/resettlement-guides/skills-translator
Professional Qualifications Framework: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/professional-qualifications-bill

Workplace Support

The Armed Forces Covenant now includes over 7,000 signatory organisations offering structured veteran support:

Mental Health Resources:

Veterans’ Mental Health TIL Service: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/armed-forces-community/mental-health/veterans-reservists/
Combat Stress: https://combatstress.org.uk/
SSAFA: https://www.ssafa.org.uk/

Professional Development:

Enhanced Learning Credits: https://www.enhancedlearningcredits.com/
Standard Learning Credits: https://www.ctp.org.uk/guides/slc-guide

Moving Forward

Success in transition often comes from early preparation and sustained support. The Veterans’ Strategy Action Plan 2022-24 provides a framework for successful transition.

For personalised guidance on your transition journey

Tel: +44 (0)2089457705 Email: [email protected]

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