Helping hand for armed forces veterans
Brave veterans of our armed forces will be given a helping hand into civilian work thanks to staff at Motherwell and Wishaw Citizens Advice Bureau.
The CAB have launched a veterans Hub, a 12 month employability programme, funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund, to support veterans and early service leavers.
A CAB spokesperson said: “We know that veterans have specific challenges in trying to secure meaningful employment when leaving service.
“We have extensive experience of supporting veterans via our Armed Services Advice Project (ASAP) and they tell us first-hand the obstacles they face.
“Additionally, Lanarkshire has significant employment issues with above average unemployment.
“Veterans and serving members of the armed services will have access to bespoke employability training.
“Both they and their families will also be provided with advice on finances, debt, benefits, money management, housing and legal matters, via our network of partnerships.
“They will also be supported to access partner services which offer health and social support, guiding them towards a positive transition.
“Employability workshops and CV assistance are included in the programme, as well as, personal budgeting skills, financial education, housing, benefits, employment and dealing with debt advice.”
Among the services the CAB will be providing for veterans who have relocated to the area after serving across the world, helping young veterans who are keen to get help to identify skills for a new career and assisting former squaddies who are applying for jobs in construction by accessing funding to obtain a construction industry safety card (CSCS).
The new annual fund was launched in June last year and the UK Government claims it demonstrates its long-term commitment to supporting schemes under the Armed Forces Covenant.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:“The new fund strategically targets areas of need.
“Every year, this £10 million will go towards worthy projects that fully promote the principles of the Covenant.”