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Job opportunities for veterans: Your path to a civilian career

Bristol

23rd April 2026

Ashton Gate Stadium

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Manchester 

9th July 2026

Manchester Central

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Cheltenham

10th September 2026

Cheltenham Racecourse

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London

27th October 2026

QEII Centre

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Anyone who has served in the armed forces is entitled to a Veterans Badge, which helps to easily identify them as a veteran. Along with the UK veteran ID card, these enamelled pins open up a range of benefits and perks, as well as helping ex-military personnel to maintain their emotional connection with the community.

Advantages of owning a Veterans Badge

Inscribed with the words ‘HM Armed Forces – Veteran’, the badge conveys a simple message to those around, saying ‘I served’. It entitles the wearer to discounts on transportation, retail, and in some cases, dining, as well as access to exclusive events and community networks.

Among the benefits and perks of being a veteran in the UK are:

  • National Insurance contributions relief for your employer in your first civilian role after service for up to 12 months, offering an incentive to help veterans find work.
  • Exemption from a local connection test when applying for social housing and looking to re-enter civilian life.
  • Access to other services and government initiatives that are specifically designed for military leavers, such as employment initiatives, housing support and guidance.

A Veterans Badge can help to prove you’re an armed forces veteran and therefore make it easier to avail of these services and concessions.

A person in a wheelchair from behind

Who is eligible for a Veterans Badge?

You can apply for a Veterans Badge and maintain a tangible link to the military community if you performed regular or reserve service in any of the UK armed forces:

  • Royal Navy or Royal Marines
  • Army
  • Royal Air Force (RAF)

Applying on behalf of a serviceperson who’s died is possible if you receive a War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension; or compensation under the Survivors Guaranteed Income Payment (SGIP).

Check your eligibility for a Veterans Badge, apply for one or replace a lost pin here.

How to apply for a Veterans Badge

Veterans Badges are automatically sent out to military personnel when they leave the armed forces and should arrive within two months. If you do not receive your badge, then you can apply online or by post with your service number and the dates of your period of service. It usually takes six to eight weeks for an application to be processed and the badge to be issued.

Image credits

Unsplash/sol

Unsplash/Jeriden Villegas

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