HelpForce

Helpforce: Supporting the Armed Forces Community into Healthcare Careers

Helpforce, a UK-based charity, works with health and care organisations to enhance the impact of volunteering nationwide. One of their key initiatives is the Volunteer to Career programme, designed to help veterans and their families transition into careers in healthcare. This programme provides hands-on experience through volunteering roles in both clinical and non-clinical settings, offering a 'try-before-you-buy' approach to exploring healthcare professions. By March 2026, the initiative aims to attract 400 members of the Armed Forces community, with the goal of 50% securing employment within the health and care sector.

To promote this opportunity, Helpforce hosted a webinar on 27th February titled Empowering the Armed Forces Community to Embark on Careers in Healthcare. This informative session highlighted the various pathways available within healthcare organisations, enabling service personnel and their families to access career opportunities through volunteering.

Several healthcare organisations are supporting this initiative. For example, the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust has successfully implemented Volunteer to Career programmes, allowing participants to explore healthcare careers before committing to a job. These programmes provide career-based volunteering opportunities, supported by additional training and job application assistance, giving individuals a greater insight into the NHS and working within the Trust.

Through these collaborative efforts, Helpforce and its partners are making a significant impact, empowering the Armed Forces community to embark on meaningful careers in healthcare, while also strengthening the sector with their valuable skills and experiences.

At Sisters In Service we welcome volunteers, and recognise the pivotal role they play in supporting the community.

For more information about Helpforce and their ‘Volunteer to Career’ programme, follow the link here.