Foundation secures future for veterans

Foundation of Light has teamed up with the Armed Forces Covenant to help military veterans into employment. More than two thirds of learners have been offered jobs after completing the Back in the Game: Veterans employability programme which provides ex-servicemen and women with the skills and confidence to adjust back into civilian life. Ran in partnership with recruitment partners Sporting Force and Job Centre Plus and funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund, the course was specifically tailored to deliver English, Maths and Security Industry Authority (SIA) qualifications with Hartlepool College at the Beacon of Light. The learners, split over two cohorts, also worked with Sunderland AFC to complete their NVQ in Stewarding which has led to positions with the club's matchday and events staff for the upcoming season. Events and venue security specialists Phoenix Security has also offered roles across the North of England, including supervisory positions at the Great North Run after successful interviews. Dave Jeffries, Skills Lead at Foundation of Light, said: "We are immensely proud of all of our learners who have completed the programme.

There are a lot of talented and dedicated people who leave the Forces every year but find it difficult to transition into civilian life. Our Back in the Game: Veterans programme helps break down these barriers by taking a holistic and tailored approach to our learners' needs.

"We would like to offer our thanks to Sunderland AFC, Armed Forces Covenant, Phoenix Security and Hartlepool College for their support which helps us change the lives of veterans across the North East."  

Randy's story:

Randy moved to England from St Lucia to serve in the British Army, completing tours of Afghanistan and Iraq before being medically discharged in 2014 due to a serious knee injury. Looking for training opportunities to help him gain employment, he was referred to Foundation of Light's Back in the Game: Veterans course where he has completed his SIA Certificate and Stewarding NVQ. Since graduating the programme, Randy has been offered a role at the Stadium of Light and matchdays and with Phoenix Security.