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Service leavers and veterans have incredible skills to bring to the workforce: discipline, leadership, teamwork, project management. These are the skills the construction industry needs.
A new partnership between DIO and Places for London is delivering on the commitments of the Defence Housing Strategy putting forces first and helping Armed Forces veterans build rewarding careers.
The first group of veterans is taking part in Building Beyond Service, which launched following a new agreement, between DIO and Places for London, Transport for London’s wholly-owned property company.
Chief Executive of Defence Housing Service, David Brewer, said,
“This pilot is the result of a pioneering partnership between the Ministry of Defence, through the new Defence Housing Service, and Places for London, which we hope will achieve real benefits, not just for the veterans taking part, but for the construction industry and for wider housing development in London and beyond. “Delivering on the promises of the Defence Housing Strategy, we are taking a truly forces first approach to create real opportunities for veterans and employers, which have the potential to lead to lasting careers in the construction industry.
The Building Beyond Service initiative offers tailored training that helps veterans translate the skills gained during Service life into civilian employment. Working closely with the construction industry, the programme connects participants with training and real job opportunities in areas where employers need skilled workers.
The London-based pilot aims to train and support up to 60 veterans into construction roles in its first year. The first cohort of eight veterans is learning hands on skills, including operating some of the most in-demand industry machinery, during the programme, which is being delivered through the Places for London Skills Academy with The Skills Centre and L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage.
The initiative complements existing support available for veterans and Service leavers through the Career Transition Partnership and Op ASCEND.
Are you or anyone you know interested in future courses? Register your interest to hear about upcoming opportunities here.