What is Recruit for Spouses?
Recruit for Spouses is an independent, award-winning social enterprise dedicated to supporting and championing an often overlooked talent pool: spouses and partners of Armed Forces members. This project focuses on breaking down outdated ideas about mobility and job suitability, providing military spouses with the tools and opportunities to return to the workforce and truly thrive in their chosen careers. With a deep understanding of the unique employment challenges faced by military families, Recruit for Spouses offers a supportive community and tailored services designed to help spouses find gainful employment, whether through permanent recruitment, temp recruitment, or other talent acquisition strategies.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Recruit for Spouses has made remarkable strides since its inception, delivering tangible benefits to military spouses and employers alike. Here are some key highlights:
- Founded in 2011 as a social enterprise and job board specifically for military spouses.
- Over 50 years combined board experience in recruitment governance and accountability.
- More than 3,000 website hits in 10 minutes following a Radio 4 feature, showing high demand.
- Winner of the Prime Minister’s Big Society Award and multiple other accolades.
- Partnerships with major organizations like BAE, AMS, Virgin, and the Open University.
- 600% growth in demand for flexible job opportunities through the AMS Liquid Workforce model.
- Expanded Coaching and Mentoring Programme, doubling in size to better support spouses.
- B Corp score of 80, reflecting strong social and environmental performance.
The Journey: From Isolation to Impact
The story began in 2009 when Heledd, a stay-at-home mum on a remote military base, felt the sting of isolation but found strength in the local spouse community. Recognizing widespread employment challenges after multiple relocations, she borrowed £100 to kickstart what would become Recruit for Spouses. From collecting signatures by post to launching the Military Spouse Business and Employment Charter Mark, the journey has been one of relentless advocacy and innovation. Along the way, the project has gained national recognition, government support, and corporate partnerships, all while staying true to its mission of empowering military spouses.
Innovative Models for Flexible Employment
Understanding that military life demands flexibility, Recruit for Spouses developed the Liquid Workforce model, a game-changer in providing adaptable job opportunities that fit around relocations and deployments. This model has been embraced by corporate partners and has seen explosive growth, especially during and after the pandemic when traditional employment pathways were disrupted. The project’s approach to talent acquisition—both permanent and temporary—reflects a deep commitment to creating sustainable, flexible careers for military spouses, helping them maintain professional momentum despite frequent moves.
A Team Rooted in Experience and Empathy
What truly sets Recruit for Spouses apart is its team. Every member has lived the military spouse experience firsthand, bringing invaluable insight and empathy to the table. This personal connection ensures that every initiative, policy, and program is designed with genuine understanding of the sacrifices and complexities military families face. Their combined expertise in recruitment governance, paired with lived experience, drives a culture of support and empowerment that resonates deeply within the community they serve.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 5: Gender Equality – Empowering women within the military spouse community through leadership programs.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Facilitating gainful employment and flexible work opportunities.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – Addressing employment barriers unique to military spouses.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Collaborating with government, corporate, and educational institutions.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Horizons
Recruit for Spouses continues to evolve, recently launching the Women into Leadership Programme in partnership with the Office of Veterans Affairs. This initiative empowers women in the veteran and military spouse community to step confidently into leadership roles. Additionally, new partnerships with Study Academy and the Open University are expanding educational and career development opportunities. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, Recruit for Spouses is poised to keep transforming the employment landscape for military families, proving that with the right support, talent truly knows no boundaries.
