News
Veterans and Employment – Harnessing a Valuable Resource
In June, I published my latest report on Veterans and Employment. It was an opportunity to revisit an issue examined by previous Commissioners and assess what has changed, what is working, and where further progress is needed. This comes at a time when rapid technological change, evolving skills requirements and economic uncertainty are reshaping the labour market.
The review reinforced the significant contribution veterans and their families make to Scotland’s economy. Service personnel develop high-level skills across a wide range of competencies, while spouses and partners often build adaptability, resilience and valuable transferable skills through the realities of military life.
I heard from employers, public bodies, charities and veterans themselves. Across Scotland, many organisations are actively recruiting, developing and retaining veterans and reservists, recognising the value of the skills and experience they bring. Encouragingly, there is growing evidence that support for those moving into civilian employment is improving.
That said, challenges remain. Veterans leaving Service with injuries can face additional barriers, and tailored support remains essential. The evidence continues to show that personalised approaches achieve better outcomes than one-size-fits-all solutions and there are opportunities to do more for specific groups. Spouses and partners could benefit from greater access to flexible, portable and entrepreneurial career pathways, while older veterans may require more targeted support to navigate the labour market and maximise the value of their experience.
One of the clearest findings was the importance of early transition planning. Those who prepare early, engage with available support and learn how to articulate their military skills to civilian employers are generally better placed to succeed. Enhancing Life Skills provision would further support transition and visible support by the chain of command can make an impact here. Transition is not a single event but a process that often continues long after leaving Service and continued engagement over time should be encouraged.
Veterans are already making important contributions in sectors such as energy, infrastructure and public services. With stronger coordination, veteran employment can play an even greater role in supporting Scotland’s economic priorities, including the transition to net zero. This will require employers, support services and government to remain responsive to changing workforce needs. Veterans themselves must continue to be supported to adapt, upskill and navigate this changing environment.
I welcome the positive response to the report from both the Scottish and UK Governments. Initiatives such as extending the Armed Forces Covenant Duty to include employment should help turn commitment into action, while reinforcing the principle that no veteran should face disadvantage because of their Service.
Scotland has made substantial progress, but there is still work to do to ensure veterans can fully realise their potential in sustainable, high-quality civilian careers.
My thanks go to everyone who shared their experiences for this report. Their stories highlight both the challenges and opportunities of transition, and demonstrate the extraordinary value that veterans bring to Scotland’s workplaces, communities and economy when given the chance to thrive.
RSS
