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Tom Hargreaves

From Army Veteran to Social Enterprise Founder

Social Enterprise Founder in Social Impact · Manchester, United Kingdom

I served two tours in Afghanistan. Coming home was harder than going. Now I help other veterans find purpose through construction trade skills.

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Career Timeline

First Job2004 - 2014
Infantry Soldier & Sergeant
British Army
I joined at 18 with no plan other than to get out of a difficult home situation. The army gave me structure, brotherhood, and purpose.
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ContextI joined at 18 with no plan other than to get out of a difficult home situation. The army gave me structure, brotherhood, and purpose.
ChallengesTwo tours left me with PTSD that I did not acknowledge for years.
LearningsStrength is not the absence of struggle. Getting help is the harder act.
OutcomeLeft service with leadership skills, discipline, and a mental health crisis that forced growth.
Skills acquired
LeadershipLogisticsTeam CoordinationCrisis Decision-Making
AdviceYour military skills are more transferable than you think. Learn to translate them.
Startup Launch2016 - 2019
Founder
Veterans Build UK
After two years of struggling with civilian life, I started running informal building workshops for veterans in my garage. Word spread fast.
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ContextAfter two years of struggling with civilian life, I started running informal building workshops for veterans in my garage. Word spread fast.
ChallengesHad no idea how to register a charity, write grants, or manage a board.
LearningsMission-driven people will teach you what you do not know if you are honest about needing help.
OutcomeSecured first government contract and registered as a Community Interest Company.
Skills acquired
Grant WritingProgramme ManagementPartnership DevelopmentPublic Speaking
AdviceStart before you are ready. The doing is the learning.

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Tom Hargreaves

Career Timeline

Infantry Soldier & Sergeant

Founder

Reflections & Questions from Readers