Social enterprise will hire more than 40 ex service personnel
An employment programme for Scottish veterans has been hailed as a revolutionary step in helping the country’s ex-forces into work.
Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company (SBMC) – a social enterprise which is to hire more than 40 of the country’s ex-servicemen and women – celebrated a backing of almost £60,000 from the Scottish Veterans Fund after director Michelle Ferguson showcased the business model.
Gavin Newlands MP, who was amongst the attendees, heaped praise on Bishopton-based SBMC, which will provide specialised signage, printing and circular economy services for both the public and private sector following its opening later in the year.
The Paisley MP said: “Despite often facing significant challenges due to life-changing mental and physical disabilities, the vast majority of this country’s ex-servicemen and women have an immense appetite for employment – and moving veterans into work is something we are always eager to encourage.
“However, the employment must be rewarding and sustainable, as well as flexible to suit the range of needs many veterans have.
“Scotland’s Bravest Manufacturing Company’s model is truly revolutionary in offering these crucial aspects.”
Established in 2008, the Scottish Veterans Fund has invested more than £1.3 million to over 150 projects, supporting ex-service personnel across the country.
As a not-for-profit enterprise, SBMC, which is owned by Royal British Legion Industries and established in collaboration with Erskine, will reinvest its entire surplus to offer greater opportunities to the country’s veterans.
SBMC recently hired its first employee, businesses development manager and veteran Colin Jamieson, who is tasked with sourcing the business’ first partnerships.
Colin, who joined the Royal Signals in 1985 before leaving after a brief period due to a knee injury, said: “Military personnel have an extraordinary skillset which is too often overlooked by employers, but as SBMC flourishes, the transferable talents of veterans will become apparent.”
Michelle Ferguson said: “We are immensely proud to have received the backing of Gavin, the Scottish Veterans Fund, and others at the showcasing of the aspirations and ethos of SBMC – their support will help us change the lives of veterans in need of work in this country.”
