The Founder Of Veterans Into Logistics
Client Focus- We spoke to Darren Wright of Veterans Into Logistics to find out more about his mission to lead armed forces veterans into the transport and logistics industry.
Darren himself is an armed forces veteran. Starting his career with the Royal Artillery aged 23. He progressed to wearing the Maroon Beret and became a member of the Airborne Forces. Following the Twin Towers attack in 2001 he was deployed to Afghanistan with The International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). 2 years later he was in a Military Psychiatric Unit, and just a month later, administratively discharged from the military. Despite this disruption and his vulnerable mental state, he had to make the transition back into civilian life. A transition that most find problematic, some more than others.
Owning his mistakes during this period, Darren openly admits that the choices he made during this time were questionable. Exacerbated by the lack of support and understanding that many veterans experience as they try to adapt to civvy street. Darren’s experience led him to some unpleasant places, resulting in a prison term. However, this proved to be what would ultimately help piece him back together, as he was finally diagnosed with PTSD and given the correct mental health support and guidance.
After serving 6 years at HMP, Darren left with a renewed focus. He used the qualifications he had gained within the armed forces. He had a HGV licence, and many personal qualities and skills that are fundamental for success in the transport and logistics industry. Gaining a new role as a HGV driver gave Darren structure and stability again as well financial security, this anchor then helped him to rebuild his relationship with his children. Eventually he became a fuel tanker driver delivering to petrol stations, earning more than he ever had in the forces.
Why Veterans Into Logistics?
Darren remained in touch with many friends who had left the forces or continued to serve. A close friend of his did not make the transition into civilian life, and was found dead having been unable to adapt. This was less than 12 months after leaving the British Army. The death of Jamie Doyle proved to be the catalyst for the founding of Veterans Into Logistics. Darren Wright left Jamie’s funeral with absolute determination that he would do more to help ex-military personnel. He felt that logistics could give more of them the stability they needed.
2 years later Veterans Into Logistics purchased its first HGV training vehicle naming it in memory of Jamie Doyle.
It would be a dis-service to Darren to skip over that 2 year period without mentioning the sheer guts and determination needed to get veterans Into Logistics up and running. Navigating the mine field of funding, legislation and financial responsibilities on the way. Forming new relationships with businesses and organisations from scratch is a daunting task for some, but one which Darren relished and excelled in. Significant figures within charitable organisations, large logistics fleets and even politicians started to take notice. VIL was soon far more than a pipe dream. It was achievable, viable, and about to change lives.
Logistics jobs For Veterans
3 years from inception, Veterans Into Logistics is a respected organisation. It has trained many ex- military personnel for rewarding careers in Logistics, even securing jobs for them at the end of their training period. They have received funding from the National Lottery Fund, various armed forces support organisations and have partnered with giants in logistics such as Asda and Muller. The support however, doesn’t stop when employment starts. VIL remain available to these ex forces veterans to help guide them through their new careers and the personal and professional pitfalls they may experience.
VIL are able to apply for funding for armed forces veterans and apply it to the correct training required. They do this after considering the qualifications that may already have been obtained in the forces. This experience often means some steps in usual training can be completed more quickly. Training advisors at VIL are highly knowledgeable because they only operate within this sector. This means they are experts in the field. The right advice the first time gets veterans into work as soon as possible.
It is obvious from the heartfelt testimonials on the Veterans Into Logistics website that they have helped our armed forces community greatly.
HGV Driver Shortage
It is no secret that the UK is suffering from a HGV driver shortage and veterans are an ideal solution to help fill the skills gap. Darren explains the how VIL can help those with a military back-ground and it is about more than getting an income.
“ Supporting them into a well-paid, structured and secure job in logistics, where they can support themselves and their families, gives them self -belief, pride and a whole new life after the military”
If you are a veteran looking to consider logistics as a new career, or a logistics company looking to tap into a dedicated and skills workforce then get in touch. Darren and his incredible team are happy to pop the kettle on and have a chat with you, in person or via a call.
Based in Greater Manchester, they can facilitate training nationwide, so they really can help you no matter whereabouts you are. They have many opportunities available within their organisation. Darren and his team can assist you in obtaining your HGV medical, HGV Theory, HGV Practical and Driver CPC.
Help Veterans In Logistics
If you would like to support Veterans In Logistics in any way then please contact them via their website.
If you are a client of HGV Driver Group and would like us to feature your organisation on our website then get in touch with Nicola on nicola@hgvdrivergroup.co.uk.
For those of you looking for an accountant or payroll provider within the HGV Industry then please get in touch with us.
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