By KLTV Newsdesk –

Week-long training and work placements announced alongside online professional drop-in event

The Poppy Factory has announced the dates for this year’s Poppy Pathways Programme, offering veterans the opportunity to take part in a week-long training and work placement designed to support their transition into employment.

New Cohorts Announced for 2026

The first cohort of the Poppy Pathways Programme will take place from 9 March to 13 March at The Poppy Factory in Richmond.

Further cohorts are scheduled for Monday 6 July to Friday 10 July and Monday 28 September to Friday 2 October.

The programme combines employability workshops with hands-on work experience in the factory.

It is designed to holistically prepare participants for employment by building confidence, providing practical experience, developing key employability and transferable skills, and supporting wellbeing and resilience.

Employability Workshops and Hands-On Experience

Participants will take part in workshops during the mornings, followed by poppy wreath making in the afternoons. Workshop topics include:

• Workplace expectations
• Confidence building
• CV basics
• Job searching and applications
• Interview techniques and practice
• Resilience

All refreshments will be provided, and travel and accommodation will be available for those who need it.

Veterans interested in taking part can find out more information and register their interest through Poppy Pathways.

Online Drop-In for Professionals

Alongside the programme announcement, The Poppy Factory is also hosting a Professionals Online Drop-In on 18 February from 10 am to 11 am.

The session will offer an overview of the organisation’s work and will include a presentation from the Defence Medical Welfare Service.

Professionals can register for the online event here.