A free support course for armed forces veterans is now on offer in Middlesbrough.
In partnership with security company Associated Risks Group (ARG), Middlesbrough Community Learning is hosting the new two-day course in central Middlesbrough on March 25 and 26.
The aim of the initiative is to raise awareness of available local support including housing, finance, employment, health and mental wellbeing, skills and personal safety.
The sessions will also cover softer skills tailored for each individual learner, such as confidence and communication.
ARG have worked closely with Community Learning over the last three years to deliver training to support residents into a range of security roles.
ARG Director Paul Hutchinson said: “During a previous security course we heard from one veteran about his struggles after leaving the forces.
“At no point was he advised who he could reach out to for help, and this led to poor mental health, money worries and ultimately homelessness.
“That prompted us to approach Middlesbrough Community Learning to develop a new support programme for veterans.”
The first Veterans’ Course took place in February, with attendees learning about the free financial assistance available and undertaking eligibility checks and calculations. New courses will run monthly until the summer.
Some applied to the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme for assistance with energy bills, and one even went on to apply for a post with Middlesbrough Council after learning about the authority’s Guaranteed Interview Scheme for former service personnel.
Councillor Linda Lewis, Middlesbrough Council’s Armed Forces Champion, said: “Our armed forces veterans lay their lives on the line for us, and we owe them a huge debt of gratitude.
“We can repay that debt at least in part by ensuring they have the support they need when they make the transition back to civilian life.
“This important support course will do just that, and I’d urge as many veterans as possible to come along and find out what’s available.”
The free Veterans’ Course takes place at the MultiMedia Exchange, 72-80 Corporation Road, Middlesbrough TS1 2RF on Monday, March 25 and Tuesday, March 26. It then continues until the summer. For more information, email paul.hutchinson@arg.uk.com, visit the MCLS website, or call 01642 956789.