Westmorland Council helping veterans into employment with Guaranteed Interview Scheme

Westmorland and Furness Council is helping veterans looking for employment through its Guaranteed Interview Scheme, supporting their transition to civilian jobs.

The council hopes the scheme will work by identifying 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 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 secured a role through the scheme, Chris Grant, said: "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.

The council encourages all eligible armed forces personnel and veterans to explore opportunities within the organisation and take advantage of the scheme.