Moray SNP News

RICHARD LOCHHEAD MSP SUPPORTS CAMPAIGN TO HELP VETERANS INTO SECOND CAREERS

Moray’s MSP backs toolkit to promote military employment programme

Richard Lochhead MSP has given his backing to Business in the Community (BITC) Scotland’s campaign to help businesses embrace the skills of veterans and support ex-military personnel into second careers.

A new toolkit written by Business in the Community Scotland, in partnership with SaluteMyJob, entitled “Capitalising on military talent: How to develop an Armed Forces friendly recruitment practice” offers a range of practical suggestions to help employers attract, recruit and retain ex-military talent.

Developed with input from leading employers, BITC Scotland’s new toolkit will equip business leaders and HR professionals with the knowledge and expertise needed to set up an effective ex-military employment programme. Employers making the extra effort to support veterans into meaningful second careers will be rewarded with loyal, skilled and committed employees.

Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“Veterans play a key role in communities throughout Moray and it is testament to the strong relationship the area has with the armed forces that so many personnel choose to stay here once they leave the services.

“It’s so important that on leaving the military that service personnel have access to good, secure, employment opportunities.  The launch of this toolkit, which will help employers set up military employment programmes, is very welcome. 

“Many local employers already benefit from having skilled and committed veterans in their workforce and I hope that this toolkit can encourage even more businesses in Moray to make an extra effort to attract and recruit ex-military talent.”

Mark Bevan Director of Business in the Community Scotland, said:

“Business in the Community Scotland is calling for the business community to reap the rewards from recruiting hard working, good humoured, highly skilled problem solvers who are used to performing well under difficult circumstances. With 3,500 veterans returning to Scotland they represent a significant boost to our labour market.

“We are proud to be working with the Scottish Government, SaluteMyJob and responsible businesses to promote an employment programme which supports returning servicemen and women into long-term civilian careers. The toolkit we have created together will equip employers with the expertise to set up effective military employment programme which will in turn reward them with loyal, skilled and committed employees.”