Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to support veterans into suitable employment.

This Government is committed to ensuring that veterans and their families are fully supported in transitioning to sustainable careers post military service.

A range of support is available, including the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), which is the initial point of provision for those transitioning into civilian life. The CTP offers assistance to individuals seeking employment for up to two years pre leaving service and for two years post service.

For veterans who are more than two years post-service, as well as their families, additional support is provided through Op ASCEND. This initiative has already successfully supported 5,000 veterans and family members and engaged with over 420 employers to create employment opportunities.

These core programmes form part of a suite of wider initiatives, which include pathways for veterans gaining employment in the Civil Service, and 12 months National Insurance relief for employers who hire veterans in their first role post-service.