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Leaving the Military - A few top tips
by Charly M - June 2023

When the time comes to leave the military and re-enter civilian life, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to begin so below are a few top tips to assist in the navigation of the transition process. 

1. Be ready for the reality of ‘Civvy Street’

  • There will be many emotions when leaving the security of the military environment. Be prepared for a period of adjustment, a process that requires time and patience.
  • The military supports many aspects of life: accommodation, food and no council tax bills. Transitioning to civilian life entails a significant shift in financial circumstances.
  • It’s important to create a budget, plan for future expenses, understand financial planning and learn about tax obligations and other financial considerations. Organisations like the Money Helper Advice Service and StepChange Debt Support Service can offer guidance and support in managing your finances.
  • Securing housing can be another significant challenge. Consider investing in a financial adviser to help understand what options are available with housing/mortgages.

2. CV Writing is a required skill

  • Rank is the focal point for progression in the military and it is only on leaving the military that a CV is required to be written in order to secure employment.
  • Make the CV relatable to nonmilitary individuals and show how the work ethic, positive transferable skills and confidence that the military has given can be used within a civilian role.
  • There are various organisations which offer support and guidance for writing a CV. The government based initiative - The Career Transition Partnership offers workshops on CV writing; as does the organisation Forces Transition Group.
  • Maintaining contact and building a network with other veterans can play a crucial role in the transition process. Utilise others experiences and knowledge.

3. Use the resources available to Veterans

  • The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) also provides job search assistance, career counselling, and training opportunities.
  • Several organisations help veterans find work, such as the Royal British Legionand SSAFA Forces Help. They also provide legal advice if needed on matters such as understanding rights, accessing benefits and resolving disputes.
  • Organisations such as X-Forces Enterpriseand Help for Heroes offer funding, advice, and mentoring to veterans looking to launch their own businesses.
  • Continuing education or acquiring new skills through vocational training is an excellent way to boost employability and adapt to civilian life. Many universities and training institutions offer programs and courses specifically designed for veterans. Utilise the resources provided by the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) which offers financial support for higher education and vocational training for service leavers.

 4. Ensuring Physical and Mental Well-being

  • Taking care of physical and mental health is crucial during and into the transition to civilian life.
  • The National Health Service (NHS) offers priority treatment for veterans, and organisations like Veterans’ Mental Health Transition, Intervention and Liaison Service (TILS) and Veterans’ Mental Health Complex Treatment Service (CTS) provide specialised care for mental health concerns.
  • Support is also accessible through organisations like Combat Stress, a charity that offers specialised treatment for veterans grappling with mental health issues. Another valuable resource for veterans in this tricky time of transition.
  • Events like Invictus Games organised by charities like Help for Heroes help to give that known sense of camaraderie from the military environment.

 5. Volunteering and giving back

  • Many veterans find a sense of purpose and fulfilment by giving back to their communities. Consider volunteering with organisations that support veterans or other causes you’re passionate about.
  • Volunteering can also provide valuable networking opportunities, help you develop new skills, and improve your well-being.
  • I joined my local Riding for the Disabled Association and it gave me structure whilst working through and understanding writing CV’s and applying for jobs and offered a different community and sense of purpose to the military.

6. Final thought:

  • Accept that transition will be a challenging time.
  • Plan for it, prepare for it and don’t give up job hunting or get too demoralised.
  • Do not underestimate the skills that the military has provided: confidence; being able to deal with lots of different situations; and not getting phased by things.
  • Enjoy the next chapter of civilian life.

Author of the blog Charly McNelis served 10 years within the Royal Corps of Signals deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan and now works within Cyber Security for Computer Network Defence Ltd and has continued with her passion for horses after her military career.