We recently recruited two local ex-servicemen at the trade store in Aintree, Merseyside – Peter Collins and Tony Smith.

Both roles were initially voluntary, but after just four weeks it was obvious to Sovini Trade Supplies’ Director, Anita Harrison-Carrol, that they were indispensable members of staff.

Anita said: “Both Peter and Tony have a great work ethic; they’re reliable, organised and great to have around. We couldn’t be happier to have them on our team.”

The Sovini Group has been working in partnership with the Expect Sefton Veterans Project for over 12 months now; helping to rehouse ex-service men and also supporting their initiatives to help local veterans to integrate into the communities.

Peter, who served from the age of 16, left the Royal logistics Core in 2000 after 22 years of service, said: “Just last year I was very sad place after being made redundant from my job as a school bursar. Having a job is what keeps me and most ex-servicemen going; giving us routine helping us to reintegrate back into ‘the real world’. I’m extremely grateful to both Sefton Veterans Project and Sovini, I’m really enjoying working here.”

Tony, who left the First Battalion Irish Guards in 1980 after seven years of service, said: “Acclimatising back into civilisation after years of regimental life is unbelievably hard, so it’s important that veterans take advantage of any support available to them. I would have never heard about this job if it hadn’t have been for the Sefton Veterans project.”

The Sovini Group follows the armed forces covenant, whereby they pledge to demonstrate their concrete support for the armed forces community. The covenant recognises that the whole nation has a moral obligation to members of the armed forces and their families, and it establishes how they should expect to be treated.

Sefton Veterans Project brings together a range of specialist organizations to provide personalised support under one roof at Expects Bowersdale Resource Centre in Seaforth. The project is funded by NHS South Sefton CCG, NHS Southport and Formby CCG and the Charity Expect Ltd, and run in partnership with Sefton CVS and Sefton Council.

For more information about this story, please contact the Sovini press office (0151) 529 7073