The Poppy Factory has announced a record year of support for the Armed Forces community, helping 1,240 veterans and family members to feel healthier, more independent and better connected through employment.
The figures are published in the charity’s latest Annual Report and Accounts and Impact Report, highlighting growing demand for specialist employment services that are delivered by the charity nationally with the support of its partners.
During the year, veterans across the UK started 363 jobs after receiving one-to-one support in their communities. Many faced significant barriers to work including mental health issues, isolation and financial difficulty.
Chief Executive Amanda Shepard said: “With employment comes greater independence and resilience, stronger connection and improved health. This brings long-term, positive change for veterans and their families. I am incredibly proud of both our team for the impact that they are having, and of the many veterans and family who are each taking great steps forward towards a brighter future.”
The charity’s Navigator Service – helping those furthest from employment – also expanded with 83 veterans signing up for in 2024-25. Navigator takes a practical approach to employment, helping veterans move forward through hobbies, activities and opportunities for training or volunteering.
Spouses, partners and adult children of veterans were also supported through the Families Employment Service to build confidence, secure work and achieve greater independence.
Individual successes
Alongside the figures, the annual report and accounts highlights the personal achievements of some of those who received employment support.
Veteran Simon, who struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder after leaving the military and is now thriving in work in Merseyside, said: “The difference between how things were for me, and how they are now, is like night and day. I have so much more confidence, and the support I’ve had around jobs has helped in other parts of my life, too.”
Former soldier Rawnie, who made a fresh start in a new job after moving to South Wales, said: “My main thing now is to have a nice work life balance. That’s very important to me.
“Asking for help can make things that little bit easier. You’re met with open arms. There’s no judgment, and the goal is to get you back into employment to a field that you want to work in.”
The Poppy Factory’s impact report and annual report and accounts are available at www.poppyfactory.org/impact