Military service personnel have been on placements with ourselves at VIVO Defence Services and our key Supplier BJF Group to gain more experience of civilian work and make them more attractive to future employers.

Six soldiers from 26 Engineer Regiment (Royal Engineers) based in Wiltshire took part in the exercise to sharpen their work skills such as carpentry, bricklaying and painting and decorating.

The placements were arranged at several military bases in the area and are part of our commitment to do as much as possible to support those serving in our armed forces during and after they serve.

In addition, we have committed to a target of at least 20 per cent of its new recruits having a military connection and to provide a guaranteed interview scheme for armed forces leavers.

The month-long placements, at HMS Collingwood and HMS Sultan throughout January, were designed to help those taking part gain real civilian work experience in their respective trades while working within surroundings that are familiar, strengthening their CV’s and giving them a head-start when they eventually leave the armed forces.

They were involved in various projects while also learning from, and being guided by, senior members of the BJF Group team.

Lance Corporal Leigh Graham, one of the service personnel from 26 Royal Engineers who took part, said: “These placements benefit our construction trade personnel within the Royal

Engineers and helps them to bolster their qualifications and skills. They can even provide them with a sight on civilian work life if they were looking to embark on leaving the army.”

Staff Sergeant Miles Purchase, Royal Engineers, added: “These placements were hugely valuable for our Engineers. While there are some practical elements to their training, it is important for them to gain experience of and understand real world problems and challenges We look forward to offering this opportunity to more Engineers in the future”