The volunteer-to-career programme, initiated by University Hospitals Tees, offers work experience and training to help retired military personnel transition into NHS roles.
The scheme provides a gradual route back into work, aiding veterans in their shift to civilian life.
It follows the success of previous schemes across the hospital group, which have seen many people take on new roles through volunteering-based career pathways.
The initiative is a collaborative effort by North Tees and Hartlepool, South Tees Hospitals trusts, County Durham and Darlington, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys trusts, and volunteer charity Helpforce.
Sam Taylor, therapeutic care operational lead at South Tees Hospitals, said: “We know veterans can be met with challenges that most of us will never face.
“That’s why it’s so important that we’re able to offer programmes such as this.
“This pathway provides a tailored approach to support not only veterans, but their spouses, children, and loved ones as well, to gain experience in the NHS.
“It’s an opportunity for participants to see what it’s like working in the NHS and our individual organisations, to learn new skills, and get one-to-one support in applying for health and care roles.”
Paul Wharton, head of volunteering at North Tees and Hartlepool, continued: “Our two trusts are very proud to hold the ‘Veteran Aware’ status to support those who have served for our country.
“This scheme, working with other NHS organisations in the area, is doing just that.
“We’ve held a number of veterans’ coffee mornings in the last year to nurture a local network and understand the support veterans want and need.
“We know there’s an appetite from the community to work in the NHS and now we’re honoured to be able to offer that opportunity to them.”
The volunteer-to-career programme allows veterans to explore careers and provides a direct route to work in the healthcare sector through career-based volunteering.
They will also receive training to hone their skills and dedicated support for job applications and interviews.
The career pathway is open now to Armed Forces veterans and their families who are unsure if a career in healthcare is right for them and want to try it out before applying for a paid job or course.
It is also open to those who have been out of work for a length of time and need a gradual route back into work.
For more information and to register your interest, please visit the North Tees and Hartlepool website.
