FORTH Valley Chamber of Commerce has become the first Chamber of Commerce in Scotland to sign the Corporate Covenant, formally agreeing to actively support the employment of reservists.

This support includes the innovative ViNE (Veterans in New Enterprise) project, unique to Forth Valley Chamber, which delivers structured business support to reservists and military veterans wishing to start their own businesses.

The ViNE project has been funded by the Community Covenant Grant Fund and will be operated initially as a pilot in the Forth Valley area for up to 50 participants.

On evaluation of the project, it is hoped to be able to roll it out Scotland-wide across the Chamber network.

CEO of Forth Valley Chamber, Laurence Barrett, said: “We have established a strong and positive relationship with the Armed Forces and are committed to supporting veterans and reservists in their careers. Our recent business awards were sponsored by the Ministry of Defence and SaBRE and we are delighted to be the first Chamber in Scotland to sign the Corporate Covenant.” Unit Employer Support Officer with the Scottish Transport Regiment, Major Maurice Walsh, said: “Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce’s initiative in founding the ViNE project provides an excellent opportunity for transitioning Service personnel and Reservists alike, by offering valuable technical, administrative and business expertise to those wishing to set up their own business.” By entering into a Corporate Covenant, Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce is publicly demonstrating its support of the Armed Forces community, and recognising the valuable contribution which Service personnel, with their wealth of experience and transferable skills, can bring to any organisation.”