A launch event in Gateshead showcasing RBLI’s unique employability programme, Lifeworks, attracted an excellent turnout of service veterans who can benefit from the scheme.
Taking place on Thursday 6 February, the event was the first of its kind to be held at HMS Calliope, and formed a special preview of the four-day Lifeworks course in Gateshead, which begins on Monday 3 March and is free for ex-Forces personnel.
The UK-wide programme helps long-term unemployed veterans to gain workplace skills, rebuild their confidence and make a successful transition to civilian life, and also supports the families of veterans and serving personnel.
Its impact is substantial, with more than 80 per cent of those who have attended a course finding employment, or otherwise training and volunteering opportunities, within a year.
Lifeworks has supported nearly 6,000 ex-service personnel since its launch in 2011, and it is estimated that for every £1 invested in the programme, the UK economy benefits by £8. At the heart of Lifeworks is face-to-face coaching and skills training, delivered via the four-day residential courses: this is then followed by a further year of personalised employment and skills training, expert coaching and welfare support for veterans across all three of the Armed Services.
“Amazing, well-attended and a resounding success” was the verdict of Steve Parrott, Head of Lifeworks. “It was very satisfying to see such a high level of engagement from the local community,” he added. “As our primary aim is to support our veteran population into employment after service, it’s ideal when we can explain directly what we are all about and the success we’ve had in transforming lives.
“We saw incredible support from our sponsors, Greenwich Hospital, The Veterans’ Foundation and Army Benevolent Fund. Local organisations also came out in force to get behind our award-winning employment programme, which has recently been expanded for families.”
Those supporting the event included Launchpad Veterans, Gateshead Council and Walking With The Wounded. Two veterans, Rob and Adele, who had benefitted from a Lifeworks programme, were also at Gateshead to share their experiences and offer advice to those thinking of enrolling.
The launch event even attracted the visit of regional television, with ITV Tyne Tess filming an evening news item about Lifeworks and its potential impact across the north-east region.
According to research, more than two thirds of those attending a course reported improvements to their all-round health, following training, and no fewer than 99 per cent of those surveyed said they would recommend Lifeworks to others.
The Lifeworks course starts in Gateshead on Monday 3 March, and there is still time for veterans and family members to attend.
