Tag: Armed Forces Day

Hiring a veteran is good for business!

New figures reveal 20% increase in the number of employers looking to hire veterans

New figures released by the Forces Employment Charity to coincide with Armed Forces Day (Saturday, 29 June) reveal that the number of employers actively looking to hire veterans has jumped by over 20% in the last five years, increasing from 2981 in 2018 to 3603 in 2023.[1]

The charity has also unveiled new research which shows that employers who have hired veterans report that they contributed significantly to the workforce.

Results show:

  • 1 in 4 (24%) employers praised veterans for bringing strong leadership skills to the workforce[2]
  • 1 in 5 (22%) employers say having a veteran in the organisation is great for building team spirit2
  • 1 in 5 (22%) employers praise veterans for bringing unique skills to the workforce2
  • 1 in 5 (20%) employers say hiring a veteran is good for business2

The Forces Employment Charity, which supports all members of the military community in achieving civilian employment success, has also seen a massive rise in the number of job roles it has secured for its clients. Last year, the charity secured 13,246 placements,[3] compared to 11,994 the previous year,[4] reflecting more than a 10% year-on-year increase.

Despite a significant increase in employers recognising the value of hiring veterans, less than half of UK employers (41%) say they know where and how to access talent from the military community.2 

Furthermore, only 1 in 3 (35%) veterans say they feel proud of the skills they acquired during their time in the military, and whilst around 15,000 men and women leave the Armed Forces every year,[5] less than 1 in 10 (8%) working-age veterans state that they know where to go for civilian employment support.[6]

The Forces Employment Charity exists to provide life-long, life-changing support, job opportunities, and training to Service leavers, veterans, reservists and their families, irrespective of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving. The charity also delivers Op NOVA on behalf of the NHS, supporting veterans in contact with the justice system.

Edinburgh-based Leanne Bonner, Ex-Forces Programme Manager at the Forces Employment Charity, says: “As someone who works with the military community on a daily basis, helping them to take their next step on the career ladder, I am delighted to see so many more employers actively looking to hire veterans.

“Anyone who has served has a wealth of skills to offer, such as resilience, accountability, leadership and team skills, and an ability to be trained. With the help of moments such as Armed Forces Day, I look forward to seeing more employers taking steps to recruit veterans into their teams.”

Danielle Sandy, Military Talent Acquisition at Barclays, sought the support of the Forces Employment Charity’s Military Women programme to help her secure her new role, which drives veteran recruitment.

She says: “My advisor was fantastic throughout my application process for the Barclays position. She helped me not only with my CV but also put me through a number of mock interviews, which set me up perfectly on the big day.

“She is extremely knowledgeable and always on hand to provide support – no matter what time of the day. I will be forever grateful for her assistance during a daunting experience. Going from a very comfortable position into a huge corporate brand during a pandemic was a risk and a challenge.

“Still, with her support, I could make a very smooth transition. She was engaged throughout the whole process, from the first viewing of the job advert and initial application to even following up with me in weeks one and three of my new role.

“The whole experience was superb, and she gave me the confidence to take the next big step in my career. Although I have offered Service Leavers and Veterans advice for years, I often found it difficult to apply that same advice to myself and lacked confidence!

“Thankfully, my advisor was able to offer me advice and build my confidence.”

Speaking about her role as Military Talent Acquisition at Barclays, she adds: “As a Royal Navy veteran, I know first-hand both the incredible skills that veterans can bring to the civilian workforce, but also the common challenges that can sometimes act as a barrier to accessing meaningful employment once you have finished your Forces career.

“I am so proud to work for an organisation that takes active steps to embrace military talent and nurture their skills and abilities.”

Shaun Harrison from Glasgow sought the support of the Forces Employment Charity, having served in the British Army. With the help of his dedicated Advisor, who provided job signposting, CV advice and helped with interview technique, Shaun secured a role as a Nursing Assistant with the NHS.

He comments: “With the help of my Advisor, I was able to secure employment without getting overly stressed. Knowing someone had my back whilst I was navigating this job minefield was good. It let me focus on other things in my life that I love.”

Staff from the Forces Employment Charity will attend a host of events all over the country in support of Armed Forces Day. They will be on hand to provide more information about how the charity can help members of the military community take their next step on the career ladder, whether that be helping with their CVs, searching for suitable jobs, or using interview techniques to help secure funding for training opportunities.

For more information, visit www.forcesemployment.org.uk

Edinburgh to celebrate Armed Forces Day with city centre parade

Military bands, veterans, and senior Armed Forces personnel will join a parade through Edinburgh’s city centre on Saturday to show support for our Armed Forces and their families.

The Lord Provost Robert Aldridge will take part in the event to celebrate Armed Forces Day, organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.

The parade will commence on George Street close to St Andrews Square, led by the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland and Legion Scotland standard bearers, starting at 10:30 am. The route will follow George Street until reaching the saluting dias which will be outside the Assembly rooms. From there, it will make a left turn onto Castle Street and conclude.

Afterwards, the parade will move towards Princes Street Gardens West, where the Lord Provost and Air Officer Scotland Air Vice Marshal Ross Paterson CB OBE ADC DL will deliver speeches.

The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland will begin the programme of entertainment, followed by Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Maria Townsley, Stuart McLean, and Angus Munro.

Formerly known as “Veterans Day”, this annual event is observed across the UK as an opportunity to pay homage to the Armed Forces community.

Dr. Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, emphasised the significance of the occasion, stating that it is a time for unity and appreciation for all those who have served, both past and present, and their families.

It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces every day, highlighting their dedication and commitment.

Dr. Armstrong said “We hope this event will be a good opportunity for veterans and serving personnel to reunite acquaintances and comradeship and will also be a fitting tribute to everyone who serves in our Armed Forces and will also recognise the continued sacrifices that our servicemen and women make today.”

She encouraged residents of Edinburgh and beyond to attend the event, show their support, and enjoy a memorable day out.

ATTENTION! Veterans can celebrate Armed Forces Day with 50% off in Morrisons Cafes

Morrisons has announced that it is offering those in the armed forces and veterans 50% off in cafés nationwide for Armed Forces Day. 

On Saturday June 24th, anyone who comes into a Morrisons café dressed in their armed forces uniform or with a valid form of ID or a medal/badge can receive 50% off all hot meals, hot drinks and cakes. 

Available for one day only, this heroic deal is to thank the thousands of military personnel who have gone above and beyond for their country. 

Military personnel can enjoy hot menu favourites including a Roast Beef or Half Roast Chicken Dinner for just £3.74, Fish and Chips for £3.49 or Bangers and Mash for just £2.49.  

To make the deal even sweeter, those in the forces and veterans can choose from a selection of cakes such as Victoria sponge or Chocolate Fudge cake for just £1.44.

Chris Strong, Morrisons Café Buying Manager, says: “We’re honoured to be offering those currently serving in the armed forces and veterans 50% off all hot meals, hot drinks and cakes in our cafés as a thank you for all that they have done and continue to do for us all.”

Customers who scan their Morrisons More card at the till will also receive 600 points when spending £6 or more in a Morrisons café.

Morrisons Armed Forces Day deal will be available in all Morrisons cafés on Saturday June 24th and can’t be used with any other offer or promotion. 

Edinburgh celebrates Armed Forces Day with city centre parade

Depute Lord Provost Cllr Lezley Cameron and Keith Brown, Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Veterans, joined veterans and city residents to celebrate Armed Forces Day in Edinburgh on Saturday (JUNE 24th).

Hundreds lined the streets as the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and Royal Air Force Central Scotland Pipes and Drums led a parade along George Street, with Legion Scotland standard bearers and veterans taking part.

Cllr Cameron addressed the crowd in St Andrew Square, before a concert featuring both bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Fiona Liddle, Jack Hinks and Maria Townley.

The event, formerly known as “Veterans Day” was a chance to show appreciation and support for the work of the Armed Forces community. The city’s events were organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.

Cllr Cameron, whose father and uncle were in the Armed Forces, said: “Today’s event brought back thoughts and fond memories of family members and loved ones who have served.

“It gives Edinburgh the opportunity to show support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community, recognising and celebrating the outstanding contribution of those who serve and have served.

“Armed Forces Day acknowledges the personal sacrifices they make and have made to defend the UK and its interests. All of us owe an incredible debt of gratitude to these brave men and women who are the ultimate protectors of our peace and security and our way of life.”

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people coming out to show their support for all those who have served, past and present, and their families. After two difficult years, we were very pleased to return to normal and receive such a warm welcome in the city.

“I’d like to thank the City of Edinburgh Council for their support, and everyone else who helped to make this day a success.”

Armed Forces Day – New career at Amazon for Bathgate military veteran

The team at the Amazon delivery station in Bathgate is celebrating Armed Forces Day (25th June) by shining a light on some of the veterans and reservists working across Amazon’s UK operations network. 

One of the veterans currently working at Amazon in Bathgate is Daniel Da Silva, who joined the company in 2020. 

The Amazon Military Programme offers members of the military community the opportunity to pursue a wide range of exciting new career paths at Amazon.

This year Amazon will recruit (or has recruited) over 300 veterans, reservists and military spouses across the business in over 35 different jobs ranging from health & safety specialists, engineers, sales managers and team leaders to senior managers. These new employees join over 2,500 already employed at Amazon since it commenced its military programme in 2011.  

Amazon has been awarded the Employer of the Year Award at the Ex-Forces in Business Awards for two years in succession for its outstanding efforts in supporting ex-services personnel and military spouses. The Ex-Forces in Business Awards is the world’s largest celebration of military veterans in second careers. 

The awards are dedicated to providing a much-needed platform for uncovering and showcasing the business achievements of ex-military, recognising the value veterans add to businesses as well as the employers that support the transition of servicemen and women.

Amazon’s military onboarding plan dedicated mentoring platform and thriving employee resource group ‘Warriors at Amazon’ continue to ensure our ex-forces have the best possible start to their second careers in Industry.

Amazon is also a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant. The Covenant, originally introduced in 2011, has a focus on helping the Armed Forces community to access the same support from government and commercial services as the public. 

Amazon first signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2013 and renewed its commitment in 2021, vowing to uphold its key principles and to demonstrate its commitment to serving personnel, reservists, veterans and families.

Daniel Da Silva joined Amazon two years ago and is currently working as a Health and Safety Coordinator based at the Bathgate delivery station. 

Before joining Amazon, Daniel decided at age 17 to join the marines in Portugal. Due to an injury after 12 months of training, Daniel was told he couldn’t finish the last three weeks of his course. After recovering from his injury, Daniel started the same training once again and after 12 months, he received his well-deserved blue beret. 

“At some point in life we all fall, but it is down to us to stand up and use that bad moment as a fuel for something greater,” he said. 

As lockdown struck, Daniel found it very hard to stay at home. His brother was working at Amazon, so he decided to apply for a temporary part-time job but decided to stay on with Amazon after lockdown restrictions lifted. 

“I started to enjoy the diversity of roles here and opportunities and when it came to the time to go back to my previous job, I decided to stay at Amazon,” Daniel said. 

“For six years of my life, I had done a lot of leadership training and learned a lot during that period. I can now use those experiences to put what I learned into practice at Amazon. It’s something that comes naturally to me now. 

“Amazon is a great company to work for and a brilliant place to develop skills. You can go up the levels if you have the passion and commitment to do so.” Daniel added. “Comparing the opportunities that we have at Amazon to the military, it’s a much safer environment and you can spend more time with family, which are two big bonuses for me.” 

Clare Cornbleet, Senior Delivery Station Manager at Amazon in Bathgate said: “The Amazon Military Programme has been a fantastic success and Daniel is one of the many brilliant veterans and reservists working in Amazon buildings here in Bathgate and around the UK.

“The skills learned in the military are highly transferable to a role at Amazon and we’re pleased to continue offering employment, training and development opportunities to former servicemen and women through our programme.” 

Gillian Russell, Principle Programme Manager, Global Military Affairs and retired Royal Navy Officer at Amazon, added: “The military community brings huge value to the workforce and we have a dedicated team focused on bringing that talent into Amazon.

“We offer opportunities across the whole business and we train, develop and support veterans, military spouses and Reserves to flourish and thrive here. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to lean new skills and build their career at Amazon.”

Launched in 2021 the Amazon Corporate Military Internship Program is one such opportunity. It offers a direct path into corporate roles in e-commerce for those transitioning from the Armed Forces.

Those on the programme are supported throughout their transition to the corporate world, including a military mentor who already works at Amazon, tailored support from line management and an on boarding buddy.

To find out more about beginning a career with Amazon, visit Amazon Jobs

Amazon provides competitive pay, comprehensive benefits and a modern, safe and engaging work environment for its employees. The roles pay a minimum of £10.00 or £11.10 per hour depending on location, and Amazon employees can also take advantage of Amazon’s pioneering Career Choice programme, which pre-pays 95% of tuition for courses in high-demand fields, up to £8,000 over four years, regardless of whether the skills are relevant to a career at Amazon. 

Amazon also provides opportunities to improve existing skills or learn new ones through internal career progression opportunities such as cross-training, transferring to a different department and promotion into a managerial role. 

Amazon has invested over £32 billion in the UK since 2010 to provide convenience, selection and value to UK consumers, while supporting tens of thousands of businesses and creative professionals including small businesses selling on Amazon’s online stores, Amazon Web Services developers and Kindle Direct Publishing authors.  

Edinburgh to celebrate Armed Forces Day with city centre parade

Military bands, veterans, and senior Armed Forces personnel will join a parade through Edinburgh’s centre tomorrow to show support for servicemen, women, and their families.

The Depute Lord Provost Cllr Lezley Cameron will take part in the event to celebrate Armed Forces Day, organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.

Starting in Charlotte Square, the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, Royal Air Force Central Scotland Pipes and Drums, and Legion Scotland standard bearers will lead the parade along George Street at 10:15am.

They will march to St Andrew Square for a short address by the Depute Lord Provost. This will be followed by entertainment from both bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Fiona Liddle, Jack Hinks and Maria Townley. There will also a variety of stalls, including from Poppyscotland, Legion Scotland, and other charities. 

Formerly known as “Veterans Day”, the annual event is marked each year around the UK and is a chance to pay tribute to the Armed Forces community.

Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “This is a chance to come together and show our appreciation for all those who have served, past and present, and their families. It’s a day to remember the sacrifices that our Armed Forces make every day and commemorate their dedication and commitment.

“This is always an uplifting and morale-boosting event, and we’re especially delighted to return to normal after two difficult years. We’re pleased to be working with the City of Edinburgh Council and presenting an exciting and varied programme of entertainment.

“We’d encourage people throughout the city and beyond to come along, show their support, and enjoy a day out.”

Toby Carvery offers Edinburgh military personnel a FREE meal on Armed Forces Day this Saturday

Toby Carvery is showing its support for the armed forces by inviting military personnel across Edinburgh to join them for a free breakfast or carvery meal on Armed Forces Day, which this year falls on Saturday (29th June). Continue reading Toby Carvery offers Edinburgh military personnel a FREE meal on Armed Forces Day this Saturday

City set to mark Armed Forces Day

The Grassmarket will welcome a parade of serving personnel, veterans and their supporters tomorrow as Edinburgh marks Armed Forces Day.

Armed Forces Day

Celebrations for the Waterloo parade will begin with a salute at 10:25am from HRH The Duke of Kent on the Royal Mile.

At 11:30am, a spectacular Armed Forces Day parade of up to 500 serving personnel and veterans will march from Johnston Terrace via Candlemaker Row to the Grassmarket, culminating in an afternoon of live music and dance right up until 3:00pm.

Highlights include a welcome from Edinburgh’s Veterans Champion, Lord Provost Donald Wilson, and a flashback to the forties with retro dance troupe The Kennedy Cupcakes, ska music from the Pork Pie Band, and a traditional Scots military band.

Earlier this week the Armed Forces Day flag was presented to the Deputy Lord Provost Councillor Steve Cardownie and raised above the City Chambers to honour Armed Forces personnel past, present and future. The flag will remain in place until after the weekend.

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost and Veterans Champion, Donald Wilson, said: “This city has a long and proud tradition of supporting the Armed Forces and our veterans. Holding a day in their honour provides a great morale boost for the troops and their families and the parade and live entertainment is the city’s way of saying thank you.

“This year’s celebrations promise a great day out and the perfect opportunity for Edinburgh residents to show their support of serving troops, service families, veterans and cadets.”

Kevin Gray MM, Chief Executive Officer at Legion Scotland, said: “Legion Scotland is proud to once again play a major part in the Edinburgh Armed Forces Day parade to honour Armed Forces personnel and show our thanks and support for our veterans. It is so important to come together and spend a little time to show our gratitude and respect to the members of our Armed Forces and veterans who have made enormous sacrifices to help protect our freedom.

“We hope that serving personnel, veterans, families the Edinburgh community and visitors to the City will stand together and join us on the day in showing our heartfelt thanks to all those who protect us.”

Colonel Martin Gibson, Executive Chairman of Veterans Scotland, said: “The City of Edinburgh has been a garrison town for many centuries and has a long tradition of military involvement, so it is very fitting that the contribution of those serving in the Navy, Army and Air Force is being marked in this way. The City, along with its partners, is a leader in honouring the Military Covenant which commits councils to ensure that both the serving and their families and our veterans are not disadvantaged by their service.

“Service personnel offer highly desirable transferable employment skills, which have been recognised by hundreds of employers in Edinburgh and the Lothians; this is good news. The veterans’ community is very grateful to the City for once again holding this event in the heart of the Old Town.”

Armed Forces Day is the annual UK wide campaign that allows everyone to show their support for the men and women of the Armed Forces past and present, including currently serving troops, service families, Reservists, veterans and cadets.

Find directions and event information at the Legion Scotland website

Capital prepares to mark Armed Forces Day

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The Grassmarket will welcome a parade of serving personnel, veterans and their supporters tomorrow as the City of Edinburgh Council hosts special events to celebrate Armed Forces Day.

Celebrations in Edinburgh will start from 10:30am on Sunday (22 June) as the annual parade of up to 500 serving personnel and veterans march up the Royal Mile and down to the Grassmarket where they will be welcomed by Edinburgh’s Lord Provost.

The parade and welcome will be followed by live music and dance until 2pm – highlights include a flashback to the forties with retro dance troupe The Kennedy Cupcakes, ska music from the Pork Pie Band and traditional Scots song and dance.

On Monday (23 June), the Armed Forces Day flag will be presented to the Lord Provost and raised above the City Chambers to honour Armed Forces personnel past, present and future. ‘Raise the Flag Day’ is when hundreds of civic and Government buildings throughout the United Kingdom will fly the Armed Forces Day flag until just after the weekend.

The Armed Forces Day events in Edinburgh are open to all to show their support for the Armed Forces and veterans. The celebrations take place ahead of National Armed Forces Day in Stirling on June 28.

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost and Veterans Champion, Donald Wilson, said: “This city has a long and proud tradition of supporting the Armed Forces and our veterans. Holding a day of celebration in their honour is just one of the ways the people of Edinburgh can show their support.

“This is the city’s way of saying thank you and allows us to show our gratitude and appreciation for the enormous sacrifices being made every day on our behalf by so many courageous men and women.”

Colonel Martin Gibson, Executive Chairman of Veterans Scotland said: “Veterans Scotland very much appreciates the Capital City’s commitment to recognising the work of both today’s Armed Forces and the service of our veterans in maintaining our freedom.

“Our veterans have served in World War 2 and the many more modern day conflicts around the world; every year since 1945, apart from 1968, men and women from the City have been involved in operations somewhere in the world. Edinburgh has a long and very proud military tradition, and the strong support that the Armed Forces Community is given by all ages is very much valued.”

Kevin Gray, Chief Executive Officer at Legion Scotland said: “Legion Scotland is proud to play a part in the Edinburgh Armed Forces Day parade to honour Armed Forces personnel and show our gratitude and support for our veterans.

“On the centenary of WW1 the event is even more significant in our hearts and minds, as we stand together to pay tribute to so many brave soldiers who made enormous sacrifices to help protect our freedom.”

Similar events will take place across the UK, enabling people to come out and show their support, and giving a much-valued morale boost for Armed Forces personnel and their families.

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EDINBURGH ARMED FORCES DAY PROGRAMME

Sunday 11:00am Edinburgh’s Armed Forces Day parade will reach the City Chambers for an ‘eyes right’ salute from Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Donald Wilson, before he joins the end of the parade and follows it down to the Grassmarket.

11:30am welcome from the Lord Provost and address by Lieutenant General Robert Baxter, President of Veterans Scotland, followed by performances from the Kennedy Cupcakes and music acts.

FLAG RAISING CEREMONY

Monday 9:45am Procession to make its way to the City Chambers where ceremonial flag will be handed over to the Lord Provost, before the official Armed Forces Day flag is raised from the roof of the City Chambers.

The flag will be carried by Colonel Jim Wilson, General Secretary, Veterans Scotland, and escorted down the Royal Mile accompanied by a piper and two Royal British Legion Scotland National Standards, before it is presented to the Lord Provost. He will be accompanied by Commander Blackburn of the Royal Navy, and Squadron Leader Riley from the Royal Air Force.