Life-long,
life-changing
support
For over 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has proudly supported Service leavers, veterans, and their families in building successful civilian careers. Founded on 4 February 1885, we have evolved from assisting Victorian-era veterans to becoming the UK’s leading military employment and justice charity, adapting to the changing needs of those who have served.
Over the decades, we have assisted hundreds of thousands in transitioning into meaningful employment by providing expert guidance, training, and connections to supportive employers. Our unwavering commitment has led to groundbreaking initiatives, including specialised programs for spouses, partners, and young people from military families, ensuring that the entire Armed Forces community receives the support they need to thrive.
We have developed strong partnerships with businesses across various industries, advocating for the value of military experience in the civilian workforce and breaking down barriers to employment. Our work has also evolved to address the changing job market landscape, embracing digital innovation, remote opportunities, and tailored career pathways that meet the unique needs of those we serve.
Management and support teams
CTP Employer Engagement
CTP Assist
Ex-Forces Employment Team
Veterans’ Support Programme
Justice services
Employment Projects Team
TechVets
Executive support
Upon its foundation, RFEA was called the National Association for Employment of Reserve and Discharged Soldiers before becoming known as the Regular Forces Employment Association (RFEA) in 1967. From the start, RFEA emphasised the importance of preparing Armed Forces personnel for civilian roles. The OA, founded in 1920 to find work for veterans rather than provide ongoing payments, actively sought the support of the government and employers.
The aftermath of World War II increased demand for both charities, culminating in RFEA’s recognition by the Ministry of Labour and its growth to 48 branches by 1964. In 1998, RFEA began delivering employment services through the Career Transition Partnership (CTP), a relationship which continues today.
In January 2022, the two charities announced their intention to merge their employment services, which led to establishing the Forces Employment Charity in May 2022. Today, with nearly 200 staff across the UK, we remain dedicated to empowering the Armed Forces community with the opportunities and support they deserve, ensuring that their skills, resilience, and dedication continue to benefit society for future generations.
