Disability discrimination protection
If you have a physical injury, PTSD, hearing loss, or other condition arising from service that has a substantial and long-term effect on day-to-day activities, it is likely to qualify as a disability under the Equality Act 2010. Your employer is legally required to make reasonable adjustments.
Legal reference: Equality Act 2010 s.6, s.20
Ask your employer for a reasonable adjustments assessment. If refused, contact ACAS on 0300 123 1100.
Right to request flexible working
From April 2024, you have the right to request flexible working from your first day of employment. Your employer must consider your request seriously and can only refuse on one of eight specified grounds.
Legal reference: Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Act 2023
Make your request in writing, stating the change you want and how it could work practically.
Protection from unfair dismissal
After two years' continuous employment you cannot be fairly dismissed without a valid reason and a fair procedure. If your employer dismisses you because of a service-related condition, this may also constitute disability discrimination from day one.
Legal reference: Employment Rights Act 1996 s.94 | Equality Act 2010
If you believe you have been unfairly dismissed, contact ACAS within three months of dismissal.
Military service recognition on CVs
The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) provides free CV support, interview coaching and job finding services to all service leavers for two years after discharge.
Legal reference: Career Transition Partnership — www.ctp.org.uk
Register with CTP at www.ctp.org.uk. It is free and available to all who have served at least four years, or been medically discharged.
Veterans Employment Transition Support
The VETS programme provides mentoring, employment support and access to veteran-friendly employers across the UK.
Legal reference: Veterans Employment Transition Support
Contact VETS at www.veteransemployment.org.uk