Mission

ENABLE Ex-Service personnel to enter into full-time employment within the construction industry in order to SUPPORT veteran transition and REDUCE construction skills shortage.

About

Developed by Veterans for Veterans, Project RECCE is a career transition programme delivered in partnership with The Royal Foundation and The Armed Forces Covenant Grant Fund. Our unique construction training programme is supported by a number of military charities including Help For Heroes, local delivery partners and employers and prepares veterans for their first role in the industry.

For those with existing construction experience, whether gained in the military or construction industry, there is a fast-track scheme to assist with employment opportunities.

The Problem

The problem which has been identified has two distinct aspects. Firstly, the transition from the military into the civilian world is often a complex and unsettling process which many are unprepared for. Along with relocation and financial pressures, the cultural change is mentally demanding which can lead to an individual not knowing how to proceed. Within days an individual can lose their sense of identity and purpose. A person can one day hold high status within a position of authority and responsibility and the next be unemployed. They lack clear direction as to how to best apply their skills and experience and quickly become isolated and disenfranchised. Secondly, it can be seen from multiple sources that across the construction industry there is a severe shortage of skills leading to rising costs and an inability to meet government construction targets. Further to this, the veteran community is significantly under-represented within the industry with few clear pathways into employment.

The Solution

We at Project RECCE are uniquely able to utilise the combined experience of careers in the military and construction industry to deliver a bespoke programme allowing veterans a proven route into the construction industry. Through a comprehensive understanding of the transition process, we have created a four-week programme with strategic partnerships at every critical point. This ensures that the right people are selected and supported through the course into the correct construction career streams. As a result, Project RECCE solves the two key problems identified. Firstly, we are able to provide a course which prepares ex-service personnel for their first role within the construction industry. This promotes a sense of direction, financial security and empowers the individual to bring their previous military training and experience to a new industry. As a result, independence is given to those who otherwise may have become a burden on public services. Secondly, the construction industry can be prepared to receive a steady stream of fresh talent which has already honed its skills in the military. These individuals have been trained how to learn, how to work as a team, how to be disciplined, timely and safety conscious. The construction industry will therefore improve as a result of having a clear pathway for veterans to leave one community and instead join theirs.

Who are we?

Project RECCE provides a holistic approach to therapy developed by veterans who have recovered from the effects of trauma. Through peer support in a safe environment, mentors help veterans overcome the issues which are holding them back from successfully transitioning in the civilian environment.

We then offer the opportunity to enter into the construction industry through work experience provided on one of our partner sites across Greater Manchester. Project RECCE has developed a progressive programme which develops veterans in a modular sequence along the following stages.

• Veterans complete our innovative transition programme delivered by our counselling team

• Learn about the construction industry and develop employability skills

• Gain qualifications in Health and Safety and Construction including CSCS Test

• Secure Employment and join online community for ongoing mentoring and support