THE University of Bolton will guarantee job interviews for those leaving the military.

It has become the latest organisation to sign up its support through the the Armed Forces Covenant.

The Rt Hon Earl Howe, Minister of State for Defence, visited Bolton to mark the occasion as the document was signed by university chiefs.

The Deputy Leader of the House of Lords was joined by academics and military personnel.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. The university has joined thousands of organisations from across the UK now publicly demonstrating their commitment to the covenant through respect, support, and fair treatment.

At the heart of the covenant is an acknowledgement that those who serve, regular and reserve, or who have served, and their families, should face no disadvantage compared to other citizens.

Earl Howe said: “I am delighted that the University of Bolton is showing its support to our military family by joining the more than 1,000 businesses and organisations to have already signed the Armed Forces Covenant.

“Whilst the university will benefit hugely from the unique skills and experience military service brings, the practical pledges they have made today will also help serving personnel, veterans and their families to improve skills and find jobs.”

The University of Bolton will demonstrate its covenant commitments in a variety of ways including guaranteed job interviews for suitably qualified service leavers, research in support of veterans, including mental health and prosthetics, accessible courses for serving personnel, service leavers and their families and support to employees who serve as reservists

Assistant Vice Chancellor, Bill Webster, said: “Today’s signing of the Armed Forces Covenant is a significant moment for the university and shows our commitment and support to all aspects of the Armed Forces and their families.” He added: “The event is a culmination of a wide variety of achievements over the last year including links to the Army Reserve and the 100 Year Anniversary of the Great War Award — focusing on ex service personnel and their families.

“We are also delighted to be supporting the Bolton Armed Forces Centre and we are particularly privileged today that Earl Howe, Minister of State for Defence and Deputy Leader of the House of Lords has attended and supported this event as keynote speaker.”

Colonel Phil Harrison, Commander of the Army’s HQ North West, added that he was delighted to be involved with the University.

He said: “We at HQ NW are privileged to work closely with the University of Bolton.

“It is an organisation which has already committed fully to the spirit of the Armed Forces Covenant, and today’s ceremony strengthens the bonds already formed between us.

“We look forward to working ever more closely with staff and students here; whether it be through our life-saving courses, or through those who promote reserve service among students.”