Veterans' Guaranteed Interview Scheme

As an organisation, we recognise we have a role to play in helping those leaving the Armed Forces (veterans) fulfil their potential in civilian life. The transition to civilian life can be extremely challenging, particularly finding and securing lasting employment.

Our Veterans' Guaranteed Interview Scheme supports the Government's Armed Forces Community Covenant and aims to provide veterans with the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities beyond the initial application stage.

What's involved

The scheme operates for all external recruitment, excluding schools.

Veterans whose application meets the essential criteria for a particular post will be guaranteed an invitation to interview, alongside other shortlisted candidates. This will ensure a veteran does not displace another candidate that meets the essential criteria, thus widening the shortlist and ensuring the equality of opportunities.

The scheme does not guarantee a job for veterans, as selection procedures will ensure the best candidate is appointed, based on the objective criteria of the role profile.

Eligibility

This scheme is for veterans: anyone who has served, at any time and for any period, in Her Majesty's Armed Forces.

Benefits of the scheme

Veterans can bring valuable transferable skills and qualities to the SSA including:

• Communication skills
• Organisational skills and commitment
• Problem solving and adaptability
• Leadership and management skills
• Health and safety/security awareness
• Team working skills

By helping veterans to overcome barriers in finding civilian employment, the scheme can help reduce their risk of developing health and welfare problems as a result of long-term unemployment.