Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner

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Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner The Commissioner’s role is to advocate for fairness, access to services, and recognition for all veterans, regardless of service background.

The NI Veterans Commissioner's Office was established to provide a voice for veterans living in Northern Ireland to ensure fairness and safe access to services, working alongside the Veterans Welfare Service NI. The Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner’s Office (NIVCO) was established in 2020 as part of the New Decade, New Approach agreement, to ensure veterans living in Northern Ireland are properly represented, understood, and supported. As of January 2025, the current Veterans Commissioner is David Johnstone, a former Royal Irish officer with 25 years of service, including operational deployment on Op TELIC. The office works in partnership with government, veteran organisations, and the wider community to help achieve the best outcomes for those who have served. We welcome comments and constructive, respectful dialogue on our page. However, we reserve the right to remove any content considered abusive, offensive, obscene, threatening or otherwise inappropriate. Accounts posting such content, including associated accounts, may also be blocked.

14/10/2026

A Different Side

Jason's time in Afghanistan allowed him to experience a different side of military life.

He patrolled with the Danish, witnessed the realities of conflict up close and witnessed things that left a lasting impression on him. A particular moment that stayed with him was seeing a GMLRS explode in front of him.

Jason reflects on a tour that challenged him, opened his eyes and gave him a real appreciation for the realities of life on the ground.

Watch the full podcast here:

https://www.nivco.co.uk/podcasts/

13/10/2026

Veterans’ Voices Represented as Government Announces Amendments to Northern Ireland Troubles Bill

The Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner has continued to represent the views, experiences and concerns of veterans living in Northern Ireland as the UK Government progresses its proposed changes to the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill.

Following the Government’s announcement of further amendments on Monday 12 October, attention now turns to the next stage of parliamentary scrutiny, with Committee Stage discussions scheduled for next week.

Throughout ongoing engagement with veterans, veterans’ organisations and key stakeholders, the Commissioner has sought to ensure that the experiences and concerns of those who served are recognised and considered as the legislation develops.

Watch the video clip below for further coverage of these developments:

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1LhcAwZSbb/

The Office of the Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner will continue to follow the Bill’s progress and engage on matters affecting the veteran community in Northern Ireland.

13/10/2026

A Direct Hit

Jason remembers a moment when incoming fire hit the compound where he was based in Iraq, and how the protective shelters helped save lives.

He compares his tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and why the two experiences were completely different.

His full podcast is LIVE TODAY! Listen now:

https://NIVCO.podbean.com/e/
jason-gillard-championing-the-veteran-community

📢 FINAL REMINDER – CTP EMPLOYMENT FAIR COMING TO BELFAST TOMORROW!⏰ Just 1 day to go!The countdown is almost over! The C...
13/10/2026

📢 FINAL REMINDER – CTP EMPLOYMENT FAIR COMING TO BELFAST TOMORROW!

⏰ Just 1 day to go!

The countdown is almost over! The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) Employment Fair is coming to Belfast tomorrow, and there’s still time to get involved!

📅 Wednesday 14th October 2026
📍 Belfast

Whether you’re preparing to leave the Armed Forces, looking for your next career opportunity or simply exploring what the future might hold, this is an event worth attending!

Bringing together employers, support organisations and charities who recognise the value of the Armed Forces community, the fair offers a fantastic opportunity to make connections, explore possibilities and take that next step.

🤝 Meet employers who value the skills, experience and dedication gained through military service.

💼 Explore career opportunities across a range of industries and discover where your skills could take you.

🌟 Connect with support organisations offering advice, guidance and practical help for your career journey.

Who can attend?

The event is exclusively open to Service Leavers, Veterans, Reservists, Spouses and Partners.

Whether you’re actively seeking employment or just beginning to consider your options, why not come along and see what’s available?

📲 DON’T MISS OUT! Scan the QR code on the accompanying image to find out more and register your interest.

One conversation could open the door to your next opportunity!

We look forward to seeing you in Belfast tomorrow!

📢 JUST 2 DAYS TO GO – VETERANS ROADSHOW & LUNCH!The countdown is on! ⏰We’re looking forward to welcoming the veteran and...
13/10/2026

📢 JUST 2 DAYS TO GO – VETERANS ROADSHOW & LUNCH!

The countdown is on! ⏰

We’re looking forward to welcoming the veteran and Armed Forces community to our Veterans Roadshow & Lunch this Thursday, and there’s still time to join us!

📅 Thursday 15th October 2026
🕛 12pm – 2pm
📍 Theatre at the Mill, Newtownabbey

With over 20 organisations coming together under one roof, this is a fantastic opportunity to discover the wide range of support, advice and services available to veterans and the wider Armed Forces community here in Northern Ireland.

But it’s not just about finding support – it’s also about bringing people together, building connections and enjoying good company!

🤝 Meet organisations who are here to help and support you.

💬 Reconnect with old friends, meet new faces and enjoy a friendly chat.

☕ Join us for a FREE lunch in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Whether you’re looking for advice, exploring what’s available or simply fancy getting out and catching up with others, there’s a place for you at our table!

Families are very welcome to come along too.

📲 Haven’t registered yet? There’s still time, and it’s completely FREE!

🌐 Register now at www.nivco.co.uk

We can’t wait to see familiar faces and welcome some new ones this Thursday.

See you at Theatre at the Mill!

12/10/2026

Three Tours

Iraq. Afghanistan. Three tours in three years.

Meet Jason Gillard, who served for 13 years with the Royal Signals before moving into business and becoming one half of Connect Through Services, supporting veterans across Northern Ireland.

Jason's full podcast will be LIVE TOMORROW. Listen wherever you get your podcasts:

https://nivco.podbean.com/

📢 YOUR NEXT OPPORTUNITY STARTS HERE – CTP IS COMING TO BELFAST!📅 Wednesday 14th October 2026📍 BelfastLooking to take the...
11/10/2026

📢 YOUR NEXT OPPORTUNITY STARTS HERE – CTP IS COMING TO BELFAST!

📅 Wednesday 14th October 2026
📍 Belfast

Looking to take the next step in your career? Whether you’re transitioning out of the Armed Forces, exploring new opportunities or considering a fresh start, this event could be just what you’re looking for!

The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) is bringing its Employment Fair to Belfast next Wednesday, offering a brilliant opportunity to meet employers, discover career pathways and connect with organisations that understand and value the Armed Forces community.

There’s plenty to gain from coming along!

🤝 Make valuable connections with employers who recognise the transferable skills, experience and dedication of those who have served.

💼 Discover what’s possible by exploring employment opportunities across a range of sectors.

🌟 Find the right support from charities and organisations offering guidance, advice and practical help for your next steps.

Who can attend?

This event is exclusively for Service Leavers, Veterans, Reservists, Spouses and Partners.

Whether you’re actively looking for employment or simply exploring your options, come along, have a conversation and see where it could lead.

📲 Interested in attending? Scan the QR code on the accompanying image to find out more and register your interest.

New connections. New opportunities. Your next chapter.

We look forward to seeing you in Belfast!

📢 THERE’S STILL TIME TO REGISTER – VETERANS ROADSHOW & LUNCH!📅 Thursday 15th October 2026🕛 12pm – 2pm📍 Theatre at the Mi...
11/10/2026

📢 THERE’S STILL TIME TO REGISTER – VETERANS ROADSHOW & LUNCH!

📅 Thursday 15th October 2026
🕛 12pm – 2pm
📍 Theatre at the Mill, Newtownabbey

There’s still time to secure your place at our Veterans Roadshow & Lunch, taking place this Thursday in Newtownabbey!

Join us for a welcoming and relaxed afternoon, bringing together the veteran and Armed Forces community from across Northern Ireland for an opportunity to connect, catch up and discover the support available to you and your family.

With over 20 organisations attending, this is your one-stop event to meet the people and services dedicated to supporting our community.

🤝 Connect with support organisations and find out about the advice, guidance and services available.

💬 Catch up with familiar faces and make new connections in a friendly and welcoming environment.

☕ Enjoy lunch and good company while spending time with others from the Armed Forces community.

Whether you’re looking for support, want to learn more about what’s available, or simply fancy coming along for a chat and some company, you’ll be made very welcome!

Family members are warmly encouraged to come along too.

📲 Attendance is FREE! Simply register through our website:

🌐 www.nivco.co.uk

We look forward to welcoming old friends and new for what promises to be a fantastic afternoon of connection, conversation and community.

Head of Office, Alan, was honoured to attend and lay a wreath at the unveiling and dedication of the 36th Ulster Divisio...
10/10/2026

Head of Office, Alan, was honoured to attend and lay a wreath at the unveiling and dedication of the 36th Ulster Division Memorial Stone in Ballymena War Memorial garden this afternoon.

Well done to the members of the 12th Battalion Royal Irish Ri**es Memorial Association for their hard work and financial support to have this beautiful Memorial Stone placed in Ballymena as a reminder of the brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War, and particularly at the Battle of the Somme.

Lest We Forget.

📢 BELFAST – YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE!📅 Wednesday 14th October 2026📍 BelfastLooking for new opportunities, career in...
09/10/2026

📢 BELFAST – YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE!

📅 Wednesday 14th October 2026
📍 Belfast

Looking for new opportunities, career inspiration or support as you take your next steps beyond military life?

The Career Transition Partnership (CTP) is coming to Belfast, bringing together a fantastic range of employers, support organisations and charities who are committed to recognising, supporting and championing the Armed Forces community.

Whether you’re exploring your next career move, looking to build connections or simply want to discover what opportunities are out there, this event is a great place to start!

🤝 Make valuable connections with employers who understand and appreciate the skills, experience and qualities gained through military service.

💼 Explore career opportunities and discover how your skills can open doors to new and exciting roles.

🌟 Access advice and support from organisations and charities dedicated to helping the Armed Forces community thrive.

Who is the event for?

The event is exclusively open to Service Leavers, Veterans, Reservists, Spouses and Partners.

📲 Want to come along?

Simply scan the QR code on the accompanying image to find out more and register your interest.

Don’t miss this opportunity to meet new people, explore what’s possible and take that next step towards your future.

We look forward to seeing you in Belfast!

Address

Unit 9, Maine Business Centre, Main Street, Cullybackey
Ballymena
BT421BW

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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