Where to Find the Best Peer Mentoring and Guidance

Transitioning from military to civilian life, switching careers, or simply navigating life’s challenges can feel overwhelming without the right support. But you don’t have to go it alone. A strong network and access to peer mentoring can be game-changers, providing guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Here’s how to find the support you need.

Why a Strong Support System Matters

Whether you’re adjusting to life outside the Armed Forces, looking for career development, or managing personal challenges, connecting with those who understand your journey is invaluable. A solid support network can:

•  Offer practical advice from those who’ve been in your shoes
•  Provide emotional support when times get tough
•  Open doors to career and networking opportunities
•  Help you feel part of a community that has your back

Where to Find Peer Mentoring

1. Your Employer - Company Career Support Programmes

Many businesses actively support ex-military personnel by offering structured peer mentoring programs. These initiatives help veterans adjust to corporate environments, develop new skills, and advance in their careers.

Some standout companies offering mentoring for veterans and the wider Armed Forces community include:

• AtkinsRéalis – Provide structured mentoring and career development for veterans in engineering and consulting and are actively seeking individuals to join them in a number of roles.
• Leonardo's Armed Forces Network Group - Connects and Supports veterans, reservists and military family colleagues and communities. Additionally, they provide transition support along with career development and peer to peer mentoring. Find out more about the opportunities they have to offer here.
• Barclays Military & Veterans Outreach – Supports veterans, reservists and the wider Armed Forces community to develop the skills they need to transition into civilian life and gain employment, and are enabling veterans to grow their own businesses.
• Network Rail’s Military Mentor Scheme – Provides peer mentoring for veterans entering the rail industry.
• NHS Scotland Armed Forces Talent Programme - A recruitment initiative for the Armed Forces community supporting leavers, veterans, spouses, reservists and dependants to enter their workforce. 

Many of these companies actively recruit from the veteran community and provide the support needed for long-term career success.

2. Professional Networking Organisations

Groups like The Forces Employment Charity, and the Officers' Association offer structured mentorship programs, linking you with experienced professionals who can help with career transitions and personal growth.

If you’re looking for career guidance, there are several specialist organisations that help ex-military personnel find jobs, develop skills, and secure mentorship.

• The Forces Employment Charity – Offers career transition advice, CV workshops, and mentorship.
• Officers' Association – Supports officers moving into leadership roles in civilian industries.
• BuildForce – Helps veterans transition into construction and engineering careers.
• TechVets – Supports veterans moving into cybersecurity and tech roles.

These organisations often pair veterans with professionals in their chosen industry, offering insider knowledge and real-world advice.

3. Support for Military Spouses

Military spouses face unique challenges, from frequent relocations to employment difficulties and social isolation. Thankfully, there are many organisations and communities dedicated to providing support in career development, financial assistance, well-being, and social connections. Here’s where military spouses can find support:

• Recruit for Spouses - Offer a dedicated recruitment team to assist military spouses in finding employment opportunities along with one-to-one mentoring programme.
• The Forces Employment Charity (FEC) – Offers career support, workshops, and one-to-one mentoring for military spouses.
• Milspo Network – A support network for military spouses, partners, and other dependents running their own businesses.

4. Charities & Support Organisations

If you need structured support, several charities offer dedicated peer mentoring programs for career guidance, mental health, and overall well-being.

• SSAFA Mentoring Service – Provides one-on-one mentorship to help with personal and professional transition challenges.
• Help for Heroes – Offers mentorship and support for mental and physical well-being.
• The Poppy Factory – Supports disabled veterans in securing meaningful employment.
• Walking With The Wounded – Pairs veterans with mentors to help with career and personal development.

Many of these charities also offer mental health services, financial assistance, and career coaching to support all aspects of life after service.

5. Veteran’s Groups and Regimental Associations

Mentoring comes in many forms, from local veterans’ groups to regimental associations. Veterans’ breakfast clubs and community groups provide a relaxed environment to share experiences and gain valuable peer support. Meanwhile, your regimental association offers a familiar and trusted space for mentorship, helping you stay connected while navigating life beyond service. These networks exist to support veterans and keep the regimental spirit alive; you’re never alone in your journey.

• The Army Benevolent Fund – Offers financial and welfare support to service personnel and veterans.
• The Royal British Legion – Provides mentorship, welfare support, and social connections.
• The Royal Air Forces Association – Supports RAF personnel, veterans, and their families with employment, housing, and mental health services.
• The Royal Navy Association – Helps naval personnel transition to civilian life while maintaining military camaraderie.
• Veterans’ Breakfast Clubs (UK) – Hundreds of informal breakfast clubs exist across the UK, offering social and career support.
• Local Armed Forces Champions – Many councils have dedicated Armed Forces Champions who can provide guidance and connect you with resources.
• Community Veterans’ Hubs – Many local organisations such as Hull 4 Heroes and Andy'sManClub offer in-person support, networking, and workshops for veterans.

Joining these groups and meet-ups can open doors to lifelong friendships and a strong sense of community. They offer a chance to reconnect with familiar faces, gain practical support, and build new networks that help you thrive beyond service.

6. Your Network

Sometimes, the best mentors are already in your circle. Mentorship doesn’t always have to come from formal programs, sometimes, a simple conversation with someone who’s been there can make all the difference.

• Stay Connected: Keep in touch with former colleagues, military friends, and mentors. Their insights can be invaluable.
• Engage in Events & Workshops: Attend networking events, career fairs, and mentoring sessions to expand your circle.
• Leverage Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn and veteran-focused groups can help you find informal mentors.
• Be Open to Support:  Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Lean on those who’ve walked a similar path.
• Ask for introductions: Your network might know someone who can guide you, don’t be afraid to ask for a connection.
• Pay It Forward:  As you grow in your journey, consider mentoring others. Supporting fellow veterans strengthens the entire community.

Remember, you’re not alone. By tapping into peer mentoring and veteran support networks, you can gain insights, encouragement, and the resources needed to thrive. Whether through regimental associations, professional groups, or local meet-ups, finding the right support system can make all the difference in your journey.