Resettlement and the Career Transition Partnership (CTP)

CTP resettlement entitlements are tiered by length of service:

• 4+ years (full CTP package): Career transition workshops, CV support, job search assistance, access to CTP RightJob, and a funded resettlement period of up to 28 working days terminal leave. Eligible for the Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) grant.
• 1–4 years (CTP Future Horizons): Access to CTP's online services, job board, and some tailored support. Resettlement terminal leave and training grants are more limited.
• Under 1 year: Online CTP services and limited support.
• Medically discharged (any length of service): Full CTP package regardless of service length, recognising the particular challenges of involuntary discharge on medical grounds.

CTP services begin up to 2 years before discharge for those with 4+ years' service. Early engagement with CTP is strongly recommended — the process can be lengthy and the civilian job market benefits from thorough preparation.

Service leavers with 4+ years of service are entitled to up to 28 working days of terminal leave, in addition to any unused annual leave. Terminal leave should be used for resettlement activities — job searching, attending CTP workshops, visiting potential employers, or undertaking approved training courses.

During terminal leave you remain on the payroll, continue to receive your service salary, and are still subject to military discipline (though you will usually be away from unit). Defence Transition Services (DTS) advises service leavers to plan their terminal leave period carefully in advance to maximise the time available for resettlement activities.

Service leavers with 4+ years of qualifying service are eligible for the Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) grant, which can be used toward the cost of approved civilian vocational training, professional qualifications, or educational courses. Key details:

• The grant amount varies — contact your CTP advisor for the current rate and approved course list.
• Training must be directly relevant to civilian employment and approved by the CTP before costs are incurred.
• Courses can include HGV licences, construction qualifications (CSCS), IT certifications, security industry licences, and many more.
• The grant must be claimed within a specified period after discharge — check deadlines with your CTP advisor.

One of the core challenges veterans face is translating military experience into language and credentials that civilian employers recognise. CTP provides:

• CV writing workshops specifically focused on translating military roles and experience.
• Job Fairs (virtual and in-person) connecting service leavers with veteran-friendly employers.
• Employer engagement: Many large employers — including Amazon, BT, KPMG, Accenture, and the emergency services — have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and actively recruit veterans.
• Career Track: A structured CTP programme with sector-specific pathways for common post-military careers (e.g., security, transport, finance, healthcare).
• References and certificates of service: Obtain a formal record of your service — including qualifications, training, and roles — from your unit HR before discharge.