Positive Futures Getting Transition Right in Scotland - Employment, Skills and Learning

Abstract: ‘Transition’ is the term most commonly used to describe the period of change around reintegration
into civilian life from the Armed Forces. The timeframe is fluid, so this and the language of ‘resettlement’ can lead to confusion over expectations of where, when and how it happens and exactly where the responsibilities lie. I consider transition as a journey, not a single process or a point in time. This report focuses specifically on the areas of employment, skills and learning. It makes suggestions and broad outcomes-based recommendations to the Scottish Government and others, for improvements aimed at getting transition right to benefit the individual and their family as they transition and become veterans, living and working in Scotland. Empowering all veterans to adapt successfully to civilian life and make informed choices to go on to lead fulfilling lives and realise their full potential is my ultimate aim. But, as highlighted in my paper Positive Futures – Getting Transition Right in Scotland I believe huge potential benefits also exist for the economy, labour market, our communities and for the military itself, in terms of the inter-connections between a positive transition, recruitment and recognition.