Foundation of Light staff reflect on transferable skills from military service

As Foundation of Light joined the rest of the UK in commemorating Armistice Day, we caught up with three members of staff who have previously served in the Armed Forces to find out how their military experiences continue to shape their work.

Mark Taylor, an Adult and Family Learning Officer, served for 26 years in the British Army as a chef. He now works with adults and families across the region, helping them develop their skills and knowledge around home cooking and healthy eating.

Reflecting on how his time in the Army has helped him in his role with the Foundation, Mark said: “My experiences as a combat caterer set me up to become a master of my craft.

“I was very honoured to be part of the British Army Culinary Arts Team, which set me on my way to showing younger, up-and-coming chefs how to elevate their own experiences.

“Since leaving the service, I’ve continued my teaching journey, and I love sharing my knowledge with other people.”

Mark believes the values and skills developed during his military career have also proved invaluable in his work with the Foundation.

“From my time in the military, I’ve been guided by values and standards of showing compassion, sharing information and collaborating with members of a team,” he added.

“We were always fast-balled, meaning that you have to think on your feet on a daily basis, think outside the box and come up with solutions. I believe these experiences are very useful to the work we do at the Foundation of Light.”

Mark is one of several Armed Forces veterans who now use their experiences to inspire and support people in their community through the Foundation.

Last year, the charity was recognised for its commitment to the Armed Forces community after receiving the Gold Award as part of the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.

Among Mark's colleagues is Family Learning Officer Charlotte, who spent eight years in the Royal Navy. She initially served as a Weapons Engineer before retraining as a Communications Specialist.

Speaking ahead of last year's Armistice Day, Charlotte explained how her time in the Navy helped her develop skills that she continues to use in her role today.

“During my time with the Navy, I definitely became a good communicator, a people person. I use those skills in my role now, meeting and working with people from all different walks of life.

“As a female who was in a male-dominated role, I like to show, especially to the young girls that I work with, that anything is possible.”

Mark and Charlotte attended Sunderland AFC's Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club on the morning of Armistice Day, alongside Steve Brindley, the Foundation's Game of II Halves Delivery Officer.

Steve served for 37 years in the Royal Air Force, taking on a variety of roles before bringing his experience into his work supporting men's mental health through the Foundation's Game of II Halves project.

He believes many of the skills developed during military service can be transferred into community-based roles, particularly those involving supporting others.

“I think there are so many transferable skills for most people who come from the services. For me, I drew upon skills like communication, which is key, particularly in stressful situations,” Steve explained.

“Most of my roles involved being responsible for people and taking care of people, and that translates perfectly into the general work of the Foundation, but more particularly the work of the Game of Two Halves project, which is all people-focused.”

How the Foundation of Light supports veterans

The Foundation's commitment to the Armed Forces community extends beyond its role as a proud Armed Forces Employer, with a range of activities and programmes welcoming veterans and former service personnel.

One of these is Veterans Football, a series of relaxed and friendly kickabouts held every Thursday and Sunday. The sessions offer an opportunity to enjoy a game of football, often followed by a brew and a chat.

To find out more, contact David Bygate at david.bygate@foundationoflight.co.uk.

The Foundation also delivers Brew and Banter, with support from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.

These free sessions combine information and guidance, group discussions and peer support, followed by low-impact physical activity. They take place at the Beacon of Light in Sunderland (Thursdays, 6-7pm) and The Venue in Stanley (Thursdays, 10am-12pm).

For more information about Brew and Banter, contact david.bygate@foundationoflight.co.uk.