New Web Service Helping Injured Forces Personnel Find Employment

A new service designed to help injured armed forces personnel find sustainable work has launched.

Access Ability, the Government-backed website set up in 2013 by leading providers of Work Choice and Access to Work – the Government’s disabled employment programmes – has launched:www.accessability.info/armedservices – a tailored service for people medically discharged from HM Forces.

Supporting existing Armed Forces recovery and resettlement programmes, the site – which was launched officially on Armed Forces Day – enables those personnel leaving the Services due to sickness or injury to identify the relevant specialist employment and training providers in their local area so that they can access the right expert support to assist them into civilian employment.

The Access Ability service will be integrated into the work already being undertaken through Armed Services Personnel Recovery Units, The Recovery Careers Services and Help for Heroes Recovery Centres and has been designed in particular, to assist in the transition of veterans leaving the Forces and joining the Government’s Work Choice programme.

Minister for Disabled People Mike Penning said:

“We owe a huge debt of gratitude for the sacrifice made by the courageous men and women who serve this country. That’s why we make sure they get the benefits they’re entitled to if they’re injured and that we do everything we can to help them to find work and fulfil their aspirations.

Armed Forces Champions at Job Centres provide one-to-one guidance on finding a job or training opportunities, CV writing and interview tips. The new Access Ability service is a welcome addition to the assistance available to make settling back into civilian life that bit easier.”

A spokesman for Access Ability said:

“We are delighted to be able to extend our web platform to support Servicemen and women in applying to civilian employment the valuable skills and experience gained throughout their Military careers.

Access Ability members are working with employers who recognise the positive impact which a more diverse workforce has been proven to have on business productivity and income. Those leaving the Armed Forces and entering civilian employment through the Work Choice programme bring with them skills and experience which will be an asset to any employer.”