FORMER servicemen and women in Scotland are to be offered help finding civilian employment through a new dedicated business network, the Scottish Government said.

Funds totalling £22,000 have been earmarked for the project, which is aimed at ensuring veterans can “thrive and grow” in their second careers.

Ministers made the announcement as Scotland marked Armed Forces Day with events around the country.

Parades were held in Edinburgh and Glasgow, with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon joining Glasgow lord provost Sadie Docherty in George Square.

The employability project will be led by Business in the Community Scotland (BITC Scotland) with Veterans Scotland and recruitment consultants SaluteMyJob. BITC Scotland will engage businesses in recruiting and retention of former service people and there are plans for a dedicated online career fair, the government said.

Keith Brown MSP said: “This programme will harness the private sector’s considerable energy and expertise to champion veterans in the workplace.

“It will also join up employers with ex-military job seekers to help them find the role in which they can thrive and grow in their second careers.”

General Sir Nick Parker, chairman of SaluteMyJob said: “This programme will turn intent into action and join the dots in Scotland between hundreds of employers offering thousands of jobs and the former servicemen and women who seek them.”