From army life to uncertainty
After 20 years of loyal service as a sergeant in the British Army, Rachel faced a new kind of battle—transitioning to civilian life.
Medically discharged due to long-term stress and depression, she returned home with no clear path forward.
The military structure and camaraderie that once gave her purpose were gone, replaced by isolation, uncertainty, and a worsening sense of despair.
Though she received a military pension, Rachel found herself trapped, unable to access additional financial support, training, or employment services.
For nearly eight years, she rarely left the house and often struggled with basic self-care.
A turning point in nature
Rachel wanted to move past her depression and find a job, but didn’t know where to start.
Her turning point came during the COVID-19 lockdown, when she relocated to Swindon and took a leap of faith by joining the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust’s Wellbeing Programme.
Through nature-based activities, like wildlife walks, tree identification, and foraging, Rachel began to reconnect with the world around her, and with herself.
Support that changed everything
Encouraged by her progress, Rachel attended a local veterans’ drop-in session, where she discovered the Work and Health Programme Pioneer, a service offering practical help to find employment alongside health support.
Through six one-to-one sessions and a group workshop focused on psychological wellbeing, Rachel began learning how to manage her depression, set boundaries, and take meaningful steps toward rebuilding her life.
It was through this programme that Rachel met Sophie from the National Careers Service, an encounter she describes as life changing.
Sophie helped her transform dense, jargon-filled military reports into a clear, compelling CV that spoke to civilian employers.
Rachel began exploring new job options, trying roles in care and support, but none felt like the right fit.
Still, she didn’t give up.
Success against the odds
Her persistence paid off when she came across an apprenticeship opportunity with a well-known national company.
Drawing on her military driving experience, she applied.
The odds were tough: 600 applicants for 60 roles nationally, and 60 people competing for just four positions in Swindon.
Rachel wasn’t sure she had done well, but she got the job.
Today, Rachel is five weeks into her new role and thriving.
She loves the respect among colleagues, the straight-talking, and the hard-working culture. “We laugh. We work hard. There’s purpose.”
Most importantly, Rachel has regained her confidence.
She proudly created the CV that secured her apprenticeship, drawing on the skills she developed through Sophie’s CV support. “Now I know that if I ever lose this job, I have the ability and confidence to go out and get another one. That’s a powerful feeling.”
“Now I know that if I ever lose this job, I have the ability and confidence to go out and get another one. That’s a powerful feeling.”
Rachel’s advice to others
“Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. There are people like Sophie from the National Careers Service and Tina from the Work and Health Programme who genuinely care and want to help you succeed.”
She remembers the early days of her journey, when simply leaving the house felt impossible.
But step by step, with consistent support, her confidence began to grow.
“The programmes gave me a reason to get up in the morning. Just knowing I’d meet kind, helpful people was a reason to keep going.
“If you’re struggling with uncertainty or self-doubt, help is out there. Take the first step: tailor your CV, do your research, and don’t rely solely on job boards—visit company websites directly. And remember, simply showing up to that first appointment could be the step that changes your life.”
From isolation to empowerment
Rachel’s story is a powerful reminder that even after years of struggle, recovery and success are possible.
With the right support, from the National Careers Service and others, she didn’t just find a job; she rediscovered her purpose, her confidence, and herself.
If you’d like to find out more about National Careers Service and the free support on offer, please call 📞 0800 100 900 or visit 💻nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
