Tony Howley is continuing to welcome new firms to Trust A Veteran – an online directory of ex-armed forces professionals running ventures from dog walking to cyber security, building services and heating to plumbing.
And with 300 outfits already enlisted, the network is expanding apace while offering members a raft of benefits to help them in their life after the military.
Howley, who notched up deployments in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo and Afghanistan after joining up as a sapper in the late 1980s, admitted the venture had been a journey of discovery.
He only made the leap to civvy street himself after medical discharge two years ago.
Working in property maintenance, he thought a network seemed a good way of bringing self-employed ex-troops together and promoting their skills.
“You tend to find people want to employ veterans because service in the armed forces means something – it is about trust, discipline and integrity,” said Howley, who went on to serve in the Staff and Personnel Support branch of the Adjutant General’s Corps before commissionjng into the Royal Army Medical Corps during his later years in uniform.
“Originally we launched in the northwest of England where I live and am based, but we now have businesses all over the UK.
“There are all kinds of people with us and we have a fair few sectors covered.”
Ex-personnel have to provide proof of their military service – such as a veterans’ card – to be listed on the website.
The first year of membership is free, with a £75 annual fee thereafter.
The various benefits include online publicity plus discounted rates at the hardware superstore B&Q.
Howley said members would also be given a full opportunity to address complaints if any were received from customers via the website.
They would only find themselves de-listed if matters persisted or went unresolved.
“The overwhelming majority of us in this community want to stand up for the values and standards that were instilled in us when we first joined up,” he added.
To find out more or to sign up to the website visit trustaveteran.com
