The partnership will feature the creation of new employment pathways into the renewable energy industry in the East of England, highlighting the value of veterans, awareness of mental health across all employees and providing inspiring talks on resilience and leadership to EEEGR’s membership as well several fundraising challenges to fund WWTW’s programmes in the region.
WWTW, which has its HQ in North Norfolk, has appointed a new regional lead for the East of England and London, David Beer, who is ex Royal Navy, to champion support in the region from businesses as well as lead the charity’s partnership with the NHS.
The NHS rolled out its Op COURAGE mental health programme in the East of England recently, which is supported by veteran liaison and support officers (VSLOs) from WWTW in Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Essex, and Northamptonshire.
Simon Gray, executive director of policy and external affairs at EEEGR, said: “We are delighted to be working with Walking With The Wounded to make sure that men and women from the Armed Forces have skilled and well-paid opportunities in the energy sector. The energy industry will need thousands of people to fill jobs roles over the next few years, and we want local people to benefit from these jobs as the area diversifies. It’s not just engineering jobs, it’s also all the support functions and infrastructure jobs that go around these that will be needed.”
Andy Sloan, head of business development for WWTW, commented: “The East of England has a rich military history and the appetite and energy from EEEGR and its membership to support the cause can really power significant social impact – amplifying employment, mental health and volunteering outcomes.”
Martin Dronfield, executive chair at EEEGR, is leading by example in supporting the charity by going sober for 365 days to raise funds – with the exception of five ‘golden tickets’ which donors can help him unlock – and he has already raised more than £1,000. He said: “I’m delighted to be personally supporting the charity by giving up alcohol for a year, but I wanted to take it further. This new partnership signifies EEEGR’s commitment to supporting ex-military personnel and their families. EEEGR has already gained a Bronze Armed Forces Covenant award and our partnership with Walking With The Wounded cements our belief that people coming out of the armed forces can be a major contribution to the skills requirements within our industry.”
David Beer, East of England and London regional lead for WWTW said: “We want to ensure we open the eyes of organisations to the opportunities and transferable skill sets of ex-servicemen and women – and bring this back to the East of England. The veterans we support see their wellbeing improve, become active members of society again and often give back too.”