Veteran’s Health Week turns attention to those who have served our country.
In this year especially, with mental health issues and unemployment on the rise, continual support for young veterans is essential as they seek employment opportunities in the local Sunshine Coast area.
This week, veteran Tadd Marturano and STEPS Manager Employment Services Liza Brock drew special attention to their new Young Veterans’ Support Program.
The new initiative offers free employment support to young veterans aged 19-29 who have moved on from the Australian Defence Force and are seeking open market employment.
“We understand the challenges of transitioning from the Australian Defence Force and this program seeks to fill that gap and create opportunities,” Ms Brock said.
One of the key differences of the program is in Mr. Marturano’s presence and input, with his hands-on experience allowing for a uniquely empathetic approach.
“With our program we walk the path with the veteran; through the Marturano stated. transitions period into employment from the early stages of job seeking, right and continued support thereafter,” Mr Marturano said.
“Veterans civilian environment. and sometimes that can be hard to translate into a often speak a different language
“Having someone resource as you transition back into a civilian community.”
Mr Marturano further reiterated the unique dilemmas that veterans face when reintegrating into society, and the large role that employment has on its success.
“When you leave service, you leave your tribe. You leave your identity. There are so many things as a veteran when you’re transitioning that you worry about. How am I going to support who understands and can translate the Defence experience, adds a valuable my family? How am I going to support myself? Where do I find the support I need?
“Finding meaningful community engagement through employment can alleviate some of the stresses and provide you with a new support network.”
They both have high aspirations for the program, hoping that through the program the stigma of asking for help can be minimised and that support services will become essential in every transitional process.
“Veterans shouldn’t have to look around for help. We want to always make ourselves available, so that it is just the natural next step if you need someone to talk to” Ms Brock said.
“I think this program possibilities of what is out there is a fantastic so you can be better equipped when you decide to leave. opportunity for our serving members. We introduce you to the Members of our already transitioned Vet community that may be lacking the support structures, we can also help them to find their own personal desired outcomes” Mr Marturano said.
The program delivers experienced ex-service consultants who can help with resume writing, interview support, identifying viable career pathways, job readiness training and continued support to maintain success in a new role.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the STEPS Young Veterans’ Support Program, speak to one of our veteran support consultants today on 5453 8700 or email youngvets@stepsgroup.com.au.
