TRANSITION: A Service Leaver’s Guide to Getting Life Squared Away

Fail to prepare, prepare to fail

You’ve swapped uniform for civvies, and now you’re on the away team. No more guaranteed pay, no barracks, no routine. Maybe there is major change in your life. Whether your transition was smooth or sudden, this new chapter brings challenges, and opportunities.

The key? Get a solid plan in place, avoid the pitfalls, and start strong.

Finding Employment – Your New Mission Starts Here

For most leavers, work is the biggest challenge. Your military experience is valuable, but civilians don’t always recognise it. That’s where translation matters. At weServed, we help you identify what you’re good at, translate your skills into civilian terms, and build a CV that gets results.

Don’t know where to begin? Career coaching, CV support, and skills-matching tools can help. If you need qualifications, HGV, tech, cyber, fitness, trades, you may be eligible for funded training. Use your Learning Credits, you’ll be surprised at how many training providers take them. And when you’re ready, the weServed job board connects you to employers who understand veterans.

Want to go solo? We’ve got support for starting your own business, too.

Sorting Your Finances – Skint Ain’t a Good Look

Military pay was regular and simple. Now, every cost is on you: rent, tax, bills, and more. It adds up fast, so get organised early.

Step one: open a proper bank account and set up separate bills and spending pots. Step two: understand your pension, whether it’s AFPS 75, AFPS 05, AFPS 15, or includes an EDP, know what you’re owed and when.

Create a monthly budget that includes all your new expenses: rent, council tax, utilities, food, insurance, and transport. Use budgeting tools if needed, and don’t ignore benefits: Universal Credit, housing support, and veteran-specific help are there for a reason.

Avoid costly mistakes like high-interest loans or poor finance deals. Get advice before signing anything.

Finding a Home – Barracks Life is Over

Renting or buying? Decide based on your plans. Renting gives flexibility. Buying gives stability and long-term value.

Understand your tenancy rights if you rent. If you’re buying, research mortgages, costs like stamp duty, and where you want to live. Some areas are more affordable than others, but job access matters too.

Veteran-friendly mortgage advisers and property tools can help you weigh it all up.

Looking After Your Health – Because You’re Not Bulletproof

Register with a GP and dentist, your first stop for physical and mental health. Let them know you’re a veteran to access priority care for service-related issues.

Op COURAGE offers mental health support designed for veterans. You can self-refer, or go through your GP.

Grants from charities can fast-track treatment for injuries, pain, or mental health needs. Please go through SSAFA and they will direct you to those that can help.

Stay active! Whether that’s a gym, walking group, or veteran-friendly bootcamp. Your health is your kit, maintain it.

Building Your New Life – Stay Connected

Stay linked with the veteran community. weServed community offers, groups, and peer support. Whether you need career help, business advice, or just people who get it, connection matters.

Final Orders

Civvy life doesn’t come with orders, you’ve got to set your own. Plan well, ask for help, and lean on your community. You’ve handled tough ops before. This one? You’ve got it.

Now square yourself away and crack on.