Support and Employment of Veterans and Their Families

Every year, thousands of veterans return from war and face difficulties adapting: finding work, and accessing social security. There are over 1.2 million veterans in Ukraine, and their support and reintegration are an urgent need today. This issue is fundamental to 1+1 Media because some of its employees serve in the Ukrainian Security and Defence Forces, and some have already returned to work.

In response to this challenge, the company has launched a large-scale social project called ‘Life After Scars’ – an initiative designed to help veterans return to civilian life and to systematise the unique experience of Ukrainian employers in interacting with this target audience. The initiative encompasses special projects on TV and digital platforms, social advertising, the establishment of a culture of remembrance, collaboration with businesses, and a reference guide for employers.

Thanks to a comprehensive approach, the following was achieved in 2024 and the first half of 2025:

• Produced over 100 television stories about veterans;
• Launched a special programme of the same name, ‘Life After Scars,’ on the 1+1 Ukraine television channel, which received high ratings and brought millions of people together in front of their television screens;
• Collected over 15 case studies from Ukrainian employers in a practical guide;
• Reached over 1,500,000 views of articles and materials about the project;
• Hold over 25 events, webinars, and training sessions for 1+1 Media employees together with the HR team;
• Implemented two large-scale collaborations: ‘Overcoming Barriers’ and ‘The Taste of Freedom.’

Furthermore, 1+1 Media systematically supports the families of conscripted employees and veterans by providing free access to professional psychological assistance. The company has a volunteer community that responds to the everyday and emotional needs of military families and helps with communication with veteran organisations. As part of the Life After Scars project, families receive up-to-date information about the challenges and solutions associated with returning to civilian life. This approach creates an environment where support is not limited to the veteran alone, but extends to the entire family.

There is also a systematic programme for recruiting and adapting veterans, covering all stages from initial contact to a full return to work. Recruitment and internship policies are adapted to take into account the veterans’ experience, and job vacancies are marked as open to candidates with a combat background. We have implemented special onboarding, internal interviewing, and support algorithms, and are adapting workplaces, schedules, and the culture of interaction. Thanks to our experience working with Veteran Hub and other veteran communities, the HR team and People partners accompany veterans at every stage, ensuring a smooth return to the professional environment.

In particular, a comprehensive retraining system for veterans has been developed, combining individual support with practical training. The HR team helps identify strengths, choose a new profession, and form a personalised development trajectory. Educational courses at 1+1 Media school cover telecommunications, journalism, audio and visual arts, and include both theoretical training and practical experience on real projects. In this way, we not only provide new knowledge but also ensure the conditions for a full entry into the profession.

The 1+1 Media office is equipped to meet the needs of veterans with impaired mobility, as ramps have been installed and turnstiles and the access control system have been adapted for wheelchair use. There are lifts on each floor, providing unobstructed access to work areas. These changes create a comfortable and barrier-free environment for all employees, supporting inclusivity within the company.