UK Armed Forces Service leavers critical to economic growth, says report

New report reveals Service leavers hold the key to UK’s economic future 

UK Armed Forces Service leavers possess a powerful mix of skills that are not only in high demand across the UK economy today, but are also critical to its future growth, according to a new report commissioned by Reed in Partnership and produced by labour market intelligence experts, Lightcast. 

‘Skills in Transition: How UK Service leavers can power the nation’s economic future’ provides compelling evidence that Armed Forces Service leavers bring top transferable, technical and specialised skills that align with the UK’s most pressing labour market needs – from clean energy and advanced manufacturing to digital technologies and professional services.

“Service leavers are more than ready for today’s jobs – they are equipped for the careers of tomorrow,” said Donna Murrell, Managing Director at Reed in Partnership. “This report shows how their skills map directly to high-demand roles and future workforce priorities, making them a strategic asset for employers and the UK economy. By demonstrating how military-acquired skills match with employer demand across the UK economy, we are seeking to open up the widest possible choices for Service leaver careers.” 

Key findings include:

• Alignment with high-demand roles: Military-trained skills such as leadership, problem solving and resilience match the top competencies sought by UK employers
• Support for national priorities: Service leaver expertise directly supports the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, especially in sectors like advanced manufacturing, digital and life sciences
• Regional economic impact: Service leavers can help address regional labour shortages and support local growth across all UK nations and regions.
• Future-proofed careers: With targeted upskilling, Service leavers can progress into leadership and specialist roles, contributing to long-term workforce resilience
  

The report also highlights the personalised support provided by the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), which is delivered on behalf of the Ministry of Defence by Reed in Partnership to support Service leavers translate their military experience into civilian career success. 

The Forces Employment Charity has been engaged in the delivery of the CTP since 1998,working with employers to source relevant job opportunities for Service leavers and providing specialist support for Early Service leavers and Personnel on Recovery Duties.

“This research complements the expert, tailored support we provide through the CTP,” added Alistair Halliday, Chief Executive of the Forces Employment Charity. “It’s a vital resource for employers, policymakers and Service leavers themselves.” 

Reed in Partnership encourages employers to engage with the CTP and explore initiatives like Op ASCEND, the Armed Forces Covenant and the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme to access this valuable talent pool. To read the full report or learn more about how to connect with Service leaver talent, visit:

Skills in Transition: How UK Service leavers can power the nation’s economic future | Reed in Partnership

ENDS

About Reed in Partnership 

Reed in Partnership is a trusted provider of public services. We work with governments and local authorities to provide solutions to some of the most important challenges our society faces. Our partnerships enable millions of people to access services that transform their lives and their communities. Since 1998 we have been entrusted with contracts for major programmes by commissioners in the employability, health and wellbeing, assessment, skills, environment, youth, justice and defence sectors. Our partnership approach also encompasses the hundreds of specialist delivery partners, voluntary sector organisations, businesses and policy developers that we work with every day. We have been delivering the Ministry of Defence’s Career Transition Partnership since October 2024. 

About the Career Transition Partnership 

The Career Transition Partnership is the official resettlement service for the Armed Forces.  Resettlement is a Ministry of Defence entitlement available to all ranks of the UK Armed Forces.   The CTP provides comprehensive personal support for Service leavers who are transitioning from their military career into civilian life. It has supported more than 310,000 personnel over the past 25 years.  Successful resettlement requires clear aims, expert advice and access to the right resources and opportunities. CTP helps Service leavers approach their resettlement with confidence, making sure that their destination is appropriate to their skills, knowledge, experience and aspirations – whether that is in work, in education or in retirement.  A range of support is available to everyone using the CTP, including personal advice from a consultant or advisor, workshops, training courses, an online digital platform, employment fairs and employer open day events. 

About Lightcast

Lightcast is the global leader in labour market intelligence, empowering smarter decisions for businesses, education institutions and governments worldwide. Lightcast has the world’s most comprehensive database - spanning over 2.5 billion job postings, 400 million career profiles and 100+ government sources. Lightcast delivers unparalleled insight into skills, jobs, companies, professional profiles and workforce trends across 150+ countries. Their proprietary taxonomies, advanced AI and expert guidance transform complex data into clear, actionable intelligence. Lightcast has offices in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, New Zealand and India. Learn more at lightcast.io.