Darragh served in the Army for 12 years and undertook an operational tour of Afghanistan. He struggled after leaving the Army, ending up jobless and homeless, and a RBLI Lifeworks course, funded by the Army Benevolent Fund, gave him the self-belief and sense of self-worth he needed to find employment.
Darragh grew up in the Republic of Ireland and joined the Corps of Royal Engineers when he was 22 years old. As a combat engineer, Darragh undertook an operational tour in Afghanistan and had overseas postings in Germany, Kenya, Canada and the Middle East.
He enjoyed Army life, making lifelong friends and working in a team that experienced life in different countries. After 12 years of service, with the rank of Lance Corporal, he decided to leave the Army. He struggled significantly, not having any support or knowing where to seek help. He had some employment but, with difficulties in his family life, he turned to alcohol as a coping mechanism and ended up homeless and jobless.
Darragh has been supported at Mountbatten Pavillion, Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) homeless accommodation, and was given the opportunity to undertake a RBLI Lifeworks course. He says, “As a result of the course I gained confidence, developed my CV skills and the team instilled a sense of belief that I had a lot of experience from my military career that would be an asset to employers. As a result of this I now have regained my self-pride and self-worth that I had lost after leaving the military.”
Darragh now is in employment. He says, “The company, Kenwood Ltd., has helped me from day one. I am a shop fitter and have recently undertaken site supervisor roles. I have thrived in this environment and have self-confidence again. My thanks to the Army Benevolent Fund for funding my RBLI Lifeworks course. Without your support I would not be where I am now.”
Lifeworks is a free employment support programme which provides veterans and family members of those currently serving, with the training and help they need to find employment outside the Armed Forces.