Veterans of the armed forces in Bridgend will be guaranteed an interview if they meet essential criteria for any advertised roles in the local authority under a new scheme.
Cabinet members approved the scheme which will now form part of the council’s recruitment and selection procedures at a meeting on Tuesday, October 22.
At the meeting, Bridgend County Borough Council (BCBC) leader Huw David said: “We recognise the solemn importance of the covenant we have with members of our community that have served in the armed forces, and the commitment and the sacrifice they make for us all.
“This is part of our wider suite of policies that support members of the armed forces and veterans which includes free swimming sessions, adapted accommodation for veterans that sustain injuries in service, and prioritised housing allocation.
“It’s the least we can do given the services they provide to our country.”
In a report which went before the cabinet, officers noted the valuable transferable skills veterans have, including communication, leadership and team working as well as attributes like problem solving and adaptability.
The council’s chief executive Mark Shephard said the scheme could help veterans to overcome barriers in finding civilian employment and help reduce the risk of health and welfare problems as a result of long term unemployment.
He said the scheme did not guarantee employment, as selection procedures would ensure the best candidate for the job was appointed.
The introduction of the scheme supports BCBC’s Armed Forces Community Covenant.
To be eligible for the scheme, individuals must meet the essential criteria for
the role and be currently serving in the armed forces and within 12 weeks of the discharge date or have their last long-term substantive employer as the armed forces, and no more than three years has elapsed since the discharge date.
