Armed Forces - support

The Armed Forces Covenant relies on the people, communities, and businesses of the UK to actively support it in order to make a difference.

Employment

There is a wealth of information available on how businesses can support the Armed Forces:

Within Aberdeenshire Council, we recognise that a number of our employees have a commitment as members of the Reserve Forces that may result in them being called upon in support of the Regular Forces at times of increased operational demands.

At the council we endeavour to support the deployment of Service personnel and have published provisions within our internal policy documents. Employees who are members of the non-regular forces and who attend an annual training camp are entitled to paid leave, for the duration of the camp, which must last not less than a week and not more than 15 days.

The Council is always looking at how else it can demonstrate its support. Plans for the future include giving positive consideration to veterans for jobs where they meet the essential criteria. Making more effective use of the Career Transition Partnership and Officers Association Scotland in the recruitment of service leavers and providing work placements to assist with transition. Exploring how to better support any Cadet Force Adult Volunteers who are employees.

Further insight into what it is like being a Reservist can be sought by watching this short clip of Aberdeenshire Council employee Graeme Flood.

General welfare and support

There are a number of external organisations that provide support for local Armed Forces personnel and veterans:

Royal British Legions Veterans Hearing Fund (VHF)

Veterans Hearing Support assist ex-service men and women who have hearing loss or associated difficulties such as tinnitus to access the fund. The application process is free and is not means tested. If a veteran has a hearing loss, they may be eligible to access the fund. This service to veterans is free of charge. They have a network of highly trained audiologists right across the UK who will complete a full hearing assessment on eligible veterans. They will make sure they receive the correct hearing technology and assistive listening devices, or therapies required.

Find out more about the veterans hearing support.

Within Aberdeenshire Council, we recognise that a number of our employees have a commitment as members of the Reserve Forces that may result in them being called upon in support of the Regular Forces at times of increased operational demands