Supply chain management company Armstrong Logistics has thrown its weight behind a national charity which supports army veterans in finding employment after leaving the services.

As a Gold Patron of Veterans into Logistics, the company has recruited two former military soldiers and sponsored a further three, funding their training to become fully qualified HGV drivers.

Leicestershire-based Armstrong Logistics was first introduced to Veterans into Logistics at a fund-raising event last year through long-standing customer Asda, which is also a keen supporter of the charity.

Chairman Justin Armstrong commented that after learning more of the charity’s work and its success in helping hundreds of veterans to rebuild their lives after leaving the services he was happy to pledge his company’s support.

“I decided there and then we needed to do what we could to help these veterans who have loyally served our country,” he said.

“When they leave the forces many of them are struggling with the transition back into society, so instead of using agency drivers, which we had been doing before, we now use Veterans into Logistics and help to make a real difference to their lives,” he explained.

The charity was founded in 2020 by former veteran Darren Wright who, along with fellow servicemen, had faced considerable personal struggles after leaving the military.

He was, however, determined to turn his life around and used his HGV licence gained during his army days to find employment. Over time he rebuilt his life, settling down and having a family.

Wright decided to research the number of ex-army personnel facing similar struggles after leaving the services and was shocked at how many had committed suicide or were suffering from anxiety and other mental health issues.

He said: “There are often feelings of inadequacy when leaving the services. Feelings of failure as a parent or failure as a provider.

“But by completing training and finding secure employment their quality of life often improves, as well as their mental health and family life.”

Since its launch the charity has helped train 500 veterans. Its goal is to train 100 a year.

Labour Deputy Leader and Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham are among the charity’s ambassadors.

Justin Armstrong added: “We are very proud to be a Gold Patron of Veterans into Logistics. It is a far better way for logistics companies like ourselves not only to source our drivers but to help make a tangible difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our society.”

Pictured left to right are John Harker MBE, Veterans into Logistics general manager; Neil Watton, Armstrong Logistics group transport manager; Justin Armstrong, chairman, Armstrong Logistics; and Darren Wright, Veterans into Logistics founder.

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