The Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) Grant is a financial provision available to service leavers in the UK to support their transition to civilian employment. This grant, capped at £534, is designed to cover the costs associated with training courses and other educational activities that enhance employability. Eligible service leavers can use the IRTC Grant to pay for course fees, accreditation, and other related expenses. The grant is part of the wider resettlement package provided by the Ministry of Defence, aimed at ensuring that military personnel have the necessary skills and qualifications to secure meaningful employment after their service. It is important to note that the IRTC Grant can be used in conjunction with other funding options, such as Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC), to maximise the financial support available for resettlement training.
Who is eligible?
Eligibility for the Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) Grant is determined by specific criteria set by the Ministry of Defence. To qualify, service leavers must have completed a minimum of six years of service in the Armed Forces. Additionally, those who are medically discharged or made redundant may also be eligible, regardless of their length of service. The grant is available to Regular and Full-Time Reserve Service personnel, but not to those who have served in a part-time capacity. It is essential for applicants to be within two years of their discharge date or within two years post-discharge to access the grant. This ensures that the financial support is timely and relevant to their resettlement needs. By meeting these criteria, eligible service leavers can utilise the IRTC Grant to fund their transition into civilian employment effectively.
What benefits does this provide?
The Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) Grant provides several benefits to military service leavers and veterans:
- Financial Support: Offers up to £534 to cover the costs of approved resettlement training courses.
- Course Fees: Helps pay for tuition fees, examination fees, and other course-related expenses.
- Travel and Accommodation: Can be used to cover travel and accommodation costs associated with attending training courses.
- Flexible Use: Applicable to a wide range of training courses, including vocational training, higher education, and professional qualifications.
- Career Transition: Aids in the smooth transition from military to civilian employment by enhancing skills and qualifications.
- Additional Funding: Can be combined with other funding sources like Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) for more comprehensive financial support.
- Eligibility: Available to all service leavers who have completed a minimum of six years of service.
How do I apply?
- Eligibility Check: Ensure you are eligible for the IRTC Grant. Typically, this is available to service leavers with at least six years of service.
- Resettlement Advisor Consultation: Schedule a meeting with your Resettlement Advisor to discuss your training needs and confirm your eligibility.
- Training Course Selection: Choose a training course that aligns with your resettlement plan and career goals.
- Application Form: Obtain the IRTC Grant application form from your Resettlement Advisor or the Career Transition Partnership (CTP) website.
- Complete the Form: Fill out the application form with accurate details about the training course and associated costs.
- Submit the Application: Submit the completed form to your Resettlement Advisor for approval.
- Approval and Payment: Once approved, the grant will be paid directly to the training provider or reimbursed to you upon submission of receipts.
- Follow-Up: Keep in touch with your Resettlement Advisor to ensure the process is completed smoothly.
Summary
The Individual Resettlement Training Costs (IRTC) Grant is a vital financial aid for UK military service leavers, offering up to £534 to cover resettlement training expenses. This grant supports the transition to civilian life by funding courses that enhance employability. Eligibility requires a minimum of six years of service, with exceptions for medical discharge or redundancy. The grant can be used for course fees, travel, and accommodation, and can be combined with other funding options like Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC). To apply, service leavers should consult their Resettlement Advisor, select an appropriate training course, complete the application form, and submit it for approval. This comprehensive support ensures that military personnel can effectively transition to meaningful civilian employment.
Useful Links
- GOV.UK Resettlement for Service Leavers: This page provides comprehensive information on the resettlement process, including details about the IRTC Grant and eligibility criteria.
- Career Transition Partnership (CTP): The official provider of resettlement services for those leaving the Armed Forces, offering guidance on the IRTC Grant and other support available.
- British Army Resettlement: Offers insights into the resettlement process, including financial support options like the IRTC Grant.
- Royal Air Force Resettlement Support: Information on the support available to RAF personnel transitioning to civilian life, including the IRTC Grant.
- Naval Families Federation Resettlement: Provides resources and advice for naval personnel and their families on resettlement, including financial grants.
- Forces Families Jobs Training and Resettlement: A platform offering job and training opportunities for service leavers, with information on resettlement grants.
- Veterans' Gateway Employment and Training: Offers guidance and support for veterans seeking employment and training, including information on available grants.
