For the first time since its Lifeworks employment training programme was established in 2011, veterans who took part in Royal British Legion Industries’ (RBLI’s) Lifeworks course in Glasgow received an internationally recognised SQA Accreditation.

The course that ran from 26^th to 29^th June in the National Lottery Community Building, Glasgow, was attended by eight veterans who ranged in age from 22 to 54. RBLI’s Lifeworks is an employment support programme that equips veterans, and family members of Serving personnel, with the tools to find a job outside the Armed Forces.

Scottish Veterans Commissioner Lieutenant Commander (retired) Susie Hamilton, engaged with the course and presented certificates on the final day. Speaking of RBLI’s Lifeworks training, she said, “It was a pleasure to meet with the individuals who had completed the RBLI’s Lifeworks course and hear about their experiences. All were enthusiastic about what they have learned and the support they received to develop their CVs and interview skills.

“Veterans are a unique and often high-performing source of talent that Scotland needs, but some Service leavers can find it challenging to communicate the value and relevance of their military skills within the civilian workplace. Programmes like Lifeworks offer valuable support for veterans and their family members and can help them on the path to meaningful employment. I’d like to congratulate all Lifeworks participants on gaining their SQA Employability Award and wish them the best of luck in their futures.”

In the last year 900 people took part in Lifeworks courses across the UK, with 83% now in employment, training, or volunteering.

One person who found a job after taking part in RBLI’s Life Works course is Tam White, who said: “I was on the March Lifeworks course in East Kilbride and it helped me change my outlook on finding employment. I am more confident in looking for employment opportunities and how to do a tailored CV. I now know what type of questions to ask at interview. Thanks to this training I started a new job on 3^rd July. I want to thank RBLI’s Lifeworks and ask them to keep helping veterans like me find employment.”

Gary Jamieson, a former Scots Guard, who is RBLI’s Referral Engagement Officer with responsibility for Lifeworks courses in Scotland and the North East said, “Now that RBLI is an SQA Accredited trainer we have an organisation with a global reputation for quality behind our courses. Lifeworks is designed to help people fulfil their potential and as we tailor it to suit the individual, it gives veterans an equal opportunity in the civilian job market. I completed the Lifeworks course after I was discharged from the Army after being wounded in Afghanistan, so I know it works.”