SSAFA Scotland event helps businesses understand the impacts of military service

10 December 2024

More than 25 members of the construction, engineering and defence industries joined SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, for an evening that raised awareness of the problems veterans face and how employers can help.

The Armed Forces is like a family, standing together in service. But for many, leaving the Armed Forces can be tough. 

For employers, developing an understanding of the challenges some veterans face can provide the veterans they employ with an important line of support. 

That is why SSAFA Scotland brought businesses and ex-service personnel together at the Stirling Highland Hotel for an event that explored some of these problems, through interviews with two speakers.

Christopher Balmforth MC, of Royal London, and Andrew Jackson, a SSAFA mentor, spoke about military life, the story behind Christopher’s Military Cross, and how they found the transition out of the Armed Forces. The discussion then moved onto the ways that employers can help veterans who are transitioning back to civilian life. 

Andrew Jackson, who is a private sector HR leader and volunteer mentor at SSAFA, said, “I am proud to volunteer for SSAFA. We all need help – some more than others – to transition successfully from military to civilian life. 

“It’s important for employers to understand that leaving the Armed Forces is not changing jobs, it’s changing a way of life. Military people and their families face uncertainty, lose confidence, and all too often, get lost on a difficult journey. Employers can do a huge amount to help educate military people about the commercial world and the opportunities it offers, acquire relevant skills and practical and commercial experience, guiding them on their journey.”

Sandra Millar, Corporate and Special Events Officer for Scotland at SSAFA, added, “After service, veterans often face one of their toughest battles: the transition to civilian life. Securing employment is a major milestone. But if the work is for an employer with the compassion and skills to understand the veteran experience, it can make all the difference. 

“We were heartened to see so many members of the business community taking an interest in how they can support members of our Armed Forces family. We would like to thank our speakers from Royal London and our guests for an amazing evening.”