An EVENT aimed at getting retired servicemen and women back into work is being held in Oxford.

‘Civvylisation’ will give past and present members of the Armed Forces the chance to talk to a range of help groups and discover what job opportunities are available to them.

The Oxford Mail is backing the event, which takes place at County Hall on Wednesday, January 20 from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Exhibitors include NHS Oxfordshire, JobCentre Plus and the Royal British Legion, as well as RAF Benson and RAF Brize Norton.

One of the organisations behind the event is the Oxfordshire-based Hamilton Project, which mentors veterans and service leavers who want to start their own business.

Founder Dr Tracey Marr said: “We are able to effectively provide business support to those who are leaving the services but are finding it difficult to reach out to people that have already left.

“That’s why Bianca Kerley from JobCentre Plus and I established Civvylisation.

“We thought an event would be an excellent idea to reach veterans in the county as well as a fantastic networking opportunity to bring all the service support organisations together.”

Mrs Kerley said: “As far as we know, it will be the first time that such an event is held in Oxfordshire specifically targeting veterans and we are thrilled.

“It is vital that we get help and support to everyone who needs it and make sure people are claiming the benefits they are entitled to, as well as helping people find work.

“We have the largest jobs database in the country and our personal advisers provide help on claiming benefits, advice on finding work, setting up a business, work-focussed training and setting up work trials with local employers.”

The Royal British Legion’s county field officer Craig Treeby said: “We welcomed the opportunity to be joint partners in this project to assist members of the ex-service community in the county.

“Oxfordshire has one of the greatest densities of (military) bases in the country and it has often come to our attention that, for one reason or another, a significant number are leaving ill-prepared for employment on ‘Civvy Street’.

“This event is unique and we look forward to having the chance to help those in need of guidance. It will also be a golden opportunity for the participants to network and have a greater understanding of what each can bring to the party.”

The Hamilton Project, based in Little Haseley, near Great Milton, was formed in memory of Richard Hamilton, who died in a canoeing accident in 2005 aged 35. He had trained in law and medicine and served in 21 SAS for five years.

Adventurer Bear Grylls is a supporter of the organisation. He said: “The Hamilton Project is one I whole-heartedly believe in and endorse. They give those who have given so much to our armed forces a chance to build a new life.”

dhearn@oxfordmail.co.uk