Westmorland and Furness Council is helping veterans looking for employment through its Guaranteed Interview Scheme, supporting their transition to civilian jobs.
Recognising the invaluable skills, experience and dedication of those who have served in the British Armed Forces, the scheme guarantees an interview to military personnel and veterans who meet the essential criteria for a council role, providing an opportunity for them to showcase their abilities and take the next step in their careers.
The initiative stems from the council’s wider commitment to fair support for armed forces members, veterans and their families, as outlined in the Armed Forces Covenant. Signed by the council in June 2023, the covenant recognises the sacrifices of serving personnel, veterans, reserve forces and military families. It ensures they are treated fairly and not disadvantaged by their military service.
The council’s dedication to supporting the armed forces has been recognised with the prestigious Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award, reflecting its ongoing efforts to create meaningful opportunities for veterans and service personnel.
Cllr Jonathan Brook, Leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, said:
“We are immensely proud of our armed forces and recognise the challenges they face when moving into civilian life. The Guaranteed Interview Scheme ensures that military personnel and veterans have access to opportunities where their skills and experience are valued. While the scheme does not guarantee a job, it does provide a platform for them to showcase their talents and potential.”
One veteran who successfully secured a role through the scheme, Chris Grant, shared his experience:
“The Guaranteed Interview Scheme was a real confidence boost as the majority of my working life has been in the military and therefore my experience of applying for roles was limited.
“It was a comfort to know that as long as I met the essential criteria for the role, I would get the opportunity to interview and receive feedback regardless of success. Fortunately, I was successful and the council’s excellent culture and commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant has really made me feel welcome and helped me quickly transition into the role and civilian life.”
Chris retired from the British Army in February as a Warrant Officer Class One after serving a full career in the Royal Signals and completed multiple operational deployments around the world. He recently started his new role at the council as ICT and Cyber Security Manager.
Geoff Nuzum MSc, Head of Engagement for the Reserve Forces’ & Cadets’ Association for the North West of England & the Isle of Man, said:
“The Reserve Forces and Cadets Association for the North West of England and the Isle of Man are delighted that Westmorland and Furness Council is helping veterans looking for employment through its Guaranteed Interview Scheme. Leaving the Armed Forces can be a daunting time for many service leavers, so offering a guaranteed interview, to military personnel and veterans who meet the essential criteria for a council role, can really assist with their successful transition into civilian roles. With over 10,000 service leavers per year, there’s never been a better time to access this work ready pool of talented, motivated, skilled and often professionally qualified service leavers.
“As a Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award holder, Westmorland and Furness Council is well placed to support service leavers and provide them with an opportunity to work with an employer who understands the needs of the Defence Community and offers some exciting career opportunities.”
The council encourages all eligible armed forces personnel and veterans to explore opportunities within the organisation and take advantage of the scheme.
More information on available roles and how to apply can be found at: westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/your-environment/your-community/community-safety/armed-forces-personnel