Nathan: “On the right track”

This week I was lucky enough to meet with one of our dedicated workers for Involve Rail Power and Infrastructure. 

Nathan has been working night shifts for Involve for some time. Nathan was asked, by our Operations Director Martyn Giles, to be put forward for a case study and we would be interested in hearing about what led him to working for Involve. 

I explained my role in the company and about our Corporate Social Responsibility – how we are pioneering to stand out in the industry as an inclusive, transparent employer that highlights the positivity it can bring from speaking to individuals who have lived experience of difficult times but turn up for work day after day. 

Nathan reported to have been only 16 when he entered the Parachute Regiment of the British Army. Once he had completed training in under 7 months he served our country and had completed 3 tours of duty by the age of 21. 

Nathan reports ‘’I didn’t behave, when I look back now I don’t know why’’ and that he got moved from 3 Parachute Regiment to 1. He states that this meant he was nearer home and was free to do what he liked on both evenings and weekends. He then reported getting involved with the ‘wrong people’ and fell into a drinking and fighting culture. Sadly, Nathan was sentenced and put into HMP Wormwood Scrubs for 2 years at the age of 24. During his time inside Nathan states he completed courses and qualifications. When released Nathan states he came up against many barriers for gaining employment due to having a criminal record and waited 5 years to clear this. During that time Nathan worked on the railway and gained employment quickly. Sadly, Nathan got involved in another situation which led him to being sentenced for a further 3 years. 

Nathan has been committed to working on the railway but states deep down his passion and loyalty is still with the British Army. He is yet to decide whether or not he will return to the Parachute Regiment one day and would like to work abroad in close protection. 

In the mean time, Nathan states ‘’I will never not be working!’’. For Nathan, working on the rail has been his saviour in terms of gaining a routine, structure and comfortable lifestyle. He reported enjoying working in a team but he also enjoys his private life where at the moment he is fully committed to training for an Iron Man Triathlon.  

There was no doubt in my mind nor was I surprised to see that Nathan is a committed, conscientious and enthusiastic rail worker – I even got to see photos of his work and an explanation of a typical Saturday night shift on the railway – digging for 3 hours solid in pouring rain sometimes!  

Nathan states he has good relationships within Involve Rail and has appreciated being in continuing work. We are passionate about supporting veterans and individuals that have been in difficulty, trying our best to understand and support the difference between having been in the army or prison and then working in what some would call ‘a regular job’ – equipped to offer internal mental health support and extra contact if needed.  

We are currently working hard behind the scenes and we’re on track and ready to apply for the Armed Forces Silver Employer Recognition Award – as a company that supports veterans and reservists. 

Thank you to Nathan for his time today.