YOU AND THE RAF
varied and range from 1 to 5 day course with formally programmed events which include advice on key work and life skills and CV writing. In addition, courses are available at the Battle Back Centre at Lilleshall where sports based multi-activities are held; importantly focussing on what the individual can do, rather than what they can’t.
These fantastic facilities enable individuals to complete core recovery events which assist them in dealing with the associated changes that follow serious illness or injury; ultimately helping the individual to transition, either back to full-time employment in the Service or a smoother exit to civilian life. Aside from the courses that are available at the centres, the relaxed and comfortable environment provide an ideal environment for WIS personnel should they require a period of respite and families are able to visit.
Access to the PRU and the recovery activities is through station welfare committees which make the appropriate referrals. Input is provided by the relevant welfare and medical specialists but, importantly, there is also an opportunity for the service person to state their aspirations for the future.
Despite the PRU only being officially launched this summer, assistance has been given in a number of ways over and the PRU has helped, amongst others, the following individuals:
A RAF Lance Corporal who has started university and is expected to qualify as a teacher in 2014.
A SAC who has completed courses in Project Management, who then went on to gain a work placement with the NHS in Bristol and has ultimately now been employed by the NHS.
A SNCO who, despite monumental effort, was unable to return to duty and had to leave the Service and who, after a short re-skilling course, secured a post as an instructor with a large engineering company.
In many cases, success has been cemented by the Specialist Employment Consultant securing work placements for individuals. These range from small family-run firms, to larger companies such as GQ Magazine, Legal & General, The RAF Association, Swindon Borough Council and East Midlands Ambulance Service. In some cases, additional funding has been required to pay for re-skilling activities and the Specialist Employment Consultant has arranged this through supporting charities.
www.raf-ff.org.uk
The support the PRU is now providing does not come without a great deal of work, goodwill and financial support; which can only be achieved by a blend of military and charity cooperation. The PRCs and Battle Back centres have been funded by Help for
Heroes and The Royal British Legion, the RAF PRU Specialist Employment Consultant post has been funded for three years by the RAF Association, with welfare and transitional funding provided by the RAF Benevolent Fund.
Envoy Winter 2013 27
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