Veterans charity helps ex-soldier start new career on the road

Veterans into Logistics has given former British Army soldier, James Meakins, a fresh start and a new career behind the wheel.

James, now 36, served in the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) for 14.5 years, joining the army at just 17. During his time in the military, he had a varied career and was awarded the Operational Service Medal after serving in Afghanistan.

After leaving the army, life wasn't easy. James moved around a lot and even found himself homeless at one point.

He worked as a self-employed driver while trying to get back on his feet.

That's when he reached out to The Royal British Legion, who connected him with Veterans into Logistics--a charity that helps veterans and service leavers transition into new careers, specifically as HGV drivers.

Given his background as a vehicle mechanic and already having his truck licenses, the charity quickly matched him up with a role at EST-Eurovia UK, a company that works in the Highway Surface Treatment sector.

They provide hotel accommodation for their staff, which was perfect for James.

The job runs from February to October, since the winter months are too cold for roadwork.

"I'd definitely recommend this career to anyone leaving the Forces and trying to settle into civilian life," James said. "The shift pattern is 12 days on, with two days off, and you get to travel around the country, working with different teams.

Plus, staying in hotel rooms feels kind of like camp accommodation, and moving from one job location to another reminds me a bit of military life."

Aside from his new job, James is also working on an Open University health course and has plans to study Physical Therapy at university in the future.