In my experience, soldiers have a desire to lead and succeed and need opportunities to use these qualities to get ahead in civilian life. The VETS programme has supported me do just that. It helped me secure a work placement with ISS which allowed me to ease into the civilian workplace and get to know the company. This meant that when ISS offered me a position, I was delighted and didn’t hesitate to accept. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere suits me well and I hope to have a very successful career here.

Coming out of a 13 year career in the Parachute Regiment and not fully knowing where my skills would be best suited, I registered with the VETS programme. My mentor guided and prompted me throughout my journey and together we have found meaningful employment for me at Arriva train care as a Materials Team Leader where I manage and procure stock, materials, tooling and supplies for the refurbishment of train vehicles.

My mentor has been amazing in supporting me. I decided I wanted do something in retail banking, but I wasn't sure exactly what types of jobs were available and what they involved. She helped link me up with people who could fill in the gaps and give me the experience I needed in the retail world to find the career path right for me.

Would I have been successful at Barclays without help from VETS? Probably not. Even though my skills made me a really good fit for the role, I don’t think my CV would have made it through the HR process; My VETS mentors actively engaged to highlight my military skills demonstrating how transferable and suitable they were for Barclays. My mentors also supported me throughout the interview process providing a reassuring handrail.

What’s especially helpful about VETS is it works with you on a personal level – you’re treated as an individual with individual experience, aspirations and support needs. The team takes time to understand what you can offer and what your aims are, and proactively seeks out opportunities that you can use to help achieve your goals.