Gunning for a new career
A former soldier who faced homelessness after losing his job during the pandemic is rebuilding his career thanks to Connect to Work.
Antony served for seven years in the army as an artillery gunner before leaving in 1988.
Although proud of his service, he continues to live with the long-term effects of his time in the military, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), tinnitus caused by artillery fire and knee problems.
COVID-19 ends catering success
After leaving the army, Antony retrained in catering and spent the next three decades building a successful career across the UK, eventually becoming a catering manager at a hospital in the North of England.
But in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic came and brought his career to a sudden end.
“Losing my job hit me hard,” Antony explains. “Because I was contracted, I wasn’t entitled to furlough or any extra support.”
During the pandemic, Antony found it difficult to secure a suitable role locally as opportunities became very limited.
Facing homelessness
After a long period of unemployment, Antony moved to London in search of work.
When his savings ran out, he experienced homelessness before receiving support from Veterans Aid, who helped him access social housing with Genesis Housing Association.
Once his housing situation stabilised, Antony began actively looking for work again. However, at 63 he worried that his age might work against him.
That’s when he discovered Connect to Work, delivered by Seetec.
Making the most of his military background
After meeting Employment Specialist Kim, Antony completed a vocational profile to identify his strengths and career options.
While returning to catering was one possibility, Kim encouraged him to explore roles that would make the most of his military background.
Security work quickly stood out as a strong fit.
Through the programme, Antony completed Security Industry Authority (SIA) training and received support to update his CV and begin applying for jobs.
Shortly after completing the course, Antony secured a new role in security and began his induction on 1 March.
Personalised supports focused on Antony’s needs
Antony credits the personalised support he received through Seetec with helping him take the next step. He says:
“The support was tailored to what I needed. Kim has been fantastic.”
Now back in work, Antony continues to receive in-work support to help him settle into his new role.
He has one message for others considering the programme: “If you’re thinking about it, give it a go. You never know what opportunities might come from it.”
“My goal now is to build a full-time career in security and stay in work until at least 67,
Antony
Are you a veteran living in Central London? Learn more about how Connect to Work can help you here.
