A charity that works with disabled, wounded and sick ex-servicemen and women aims to get 500 veterans into work within the next five years. The Poppy Factory intends to build on its supported employment scheme to target mainstream employers.

The scheme, which provides financial support to employers, as well as guidance and advice to both employers and service veterans, has placed 60 veterans into employment in the last few years.

The charity, which employs service veterans in Richmond, Surrey making poppies and other items for The Royal British Legion, set out its expansion plans at a recent event in London.

Steve Sharpe, manager national fleet and recovery at the AA, told the audience his organisation aimed for six placements in the first year of its partnership with The Poppy Factory.

Sharpe outlined the benefits to the AA of hiring ex-servicemen and women through the charity:

• Cost. The Poppy Factory part-funds wages in the first year
• Free month ’try before you buy’ employment trials means that both parties can decide whether it is a good match
• Morale of existing staff goes up
• Positive public image.

Sharpe added that the personal characteristics of ex-forces personnel are also hugely attractive to the AA. “Reliable and trustworthy, resourceful and self-motivated, and with the ability to work without direct supervision these guys are my ideal candidates.”