Edinburgh's veterans promised more support when looking for a new job

The Lord Provost signed a new covenant which will boost the support offered to veterans.

Danny Lawson/PA Archive/PA Images
Author: Keiran FlemingPublished 5th Mar 2019

Veterans will have more support when transitioning from the military into a new job.

This comes after the Lord Provost signed a new covenant on behalf of the council boosting the help offered to those leaving the armed forces.

Members of the Royal Navy, Army and Air force were present during the signing of the covenant.

It's hoped it will impact the lives of an estimated 40,000 veterans in Edinburgh.

The Lord Provost, Frank Ross, said: “As Veterans’ Champion for the city, I am delighted that the Council is now committed to taking our relationship a major step further forward by signing the Armed Forces Covenant for Business.

"In doing so, we are recognising quite clearly the value that serving personnel, reservists and military families bring to our organisation and to our communities.

"We are fortunate to have so many people in our city who are working together to help prevent service personnel and their families being disadvantaged as a result of their service, yet there is so much more we can do to highlight the support on offer.

"A fantastic example is the Council's Housing Service, where time spent in the forces is recognised as years of tenure. If veterans declare themselves to us within three years of leaving the forces, we can help them settle into a safe and secure home, but many choose not to identify as veteran when they present to us.

"By signing the Covenant for Business, we will be able to boost awareness and the supportive measures we have available.

"Any organisation or charity can sign the Armed Forces Covenant too and publicly make their own promises of support - I hope to see many Edinburgh-based businesses do just that and follow our lead."