Veolia Birmingham has been showing support for the national Armed Forces Day by staging its inaugural insight day for former servicemen.
Veterans from across several branches of the armed forces gathered at Veolia's Tyseley site on June 27, two days before the annual nationwide salute to our serving and former-servicemen and women.
The Veterans' Insight Day, which was supported by Business in the Community and the Combat Stress charity, was led by current Veolia staff who have previously served in the military, with a focus on helping ex-servicemen and women reintegrate into civilian society and working environments.
The event included a tour of Veolia's Energy Recovery Facility, a Q&A session with senior staff, along with networking and guidance from former servicemen.
Mark Powell, General Manager of Veolia Birmingham, said:
"Veolia is delighted to be supporting Birmingham's former servicemen and women. We are rightly proud of our veterans for their dedication and commitment to serving the country.
"However, veterans can find it extremely difficult to reintegrate following the end of their service. The barriers can be mental and physical.
"We hope this Insight Day gave our visitors invaluable experience and guidance ahead of their journeys back into full-time employment.
"And, as a company, we are proud to pay tribute to all members of the military - which is why Veolia will be proudly displaying the Armed Forces flag throughout this period of reflection."
Kelly Stackhouse, Engagement Manager for Business In The Community, said:
"Some service leavers have made a successful transition from life in the Forces to civilian employment, while others may find it harder to adapt.
"One of the most common challenges for veterans is translating their military experience in a way that resonates with employers.
"Veolia have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and are looking to organise more insight days to inspire and support service leavers who are thinking about civilian employment."