Veterans to Build More Homes Through New Construction Careers Programme
Ministry of Defence and Places for London launch 'Building Beyond Service' to equip ex-service personnel with vital construction skills.
By The SME Chronicle Newsroom
••2 min read
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Generic image of a group of people in a modern office discussing plans, with a blurred city skyline in the background.
The Ministry of Defence and Places for London have launched a new programme, 'Building Beyond Service', to help armed forces veterans transition into construction careers in London.
The initiative aims to translate military skills into civilian careers through industry-recognised training and direct links to employers. The first cohort of eight veterans is currently undergoing training in plant machinery operation, with the programme targeting support for up to 60 veterans in its first year.
Delivered via the Places for London Skills Academy in partnership with The Skills Centre and L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage, the programme provides veterans with recognised qualifications and connects them with job opportunities. Participants are learning to operate in-demand machinery and leading industry practices.
This programme complements existing Defence-backed employment support and aligns with the government’s Defence Housing Strategy. It seeks to address construction skills shortages and create employment opportunities for veterans, contributing to the government's ambition to increase housing supply across London.
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"Veterans leave the Armed Forces with skills, experience, and a work ethic that employers across the country are looking for. The challenge is often making sure those skills are recognised and creating a clear route into civilian careers. That’s exactly what this programme is doing, helping veterans move into good jobs while supporting an industry that needs skilled people."
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"This pilot is the result of a pioneering partnership between the Ministry of Defence, through the new Defence Housing Service, and Places for London, which we hope will achieve real benefits, not just for the veterans taking part, but for the construction industry and for wider housing development in London and beyond."
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"People leaving the Armed Forces bring an incredible range of skills, experience and qualities that can make a real difference to the built environment. Many veterans do not realise the range of opportunities available or how the skills they have developed during their military careers could open doors to something new."
