OREANDA-NEWS. March 01, 2012. Fujitsu UK & Ireland has teamed up with Solider On! - a charity that aims to expand the breadth of opportunities available to injured army personnel – by providing Ben Parkinson, an injured serviceman, with expertise, insight and recommendations as he explores the world of IT. The initial meeting between Ben and Fujitsu in February 2012 marked the beginning of what will be a close relationship as Ben continues his recovery.

In 2006, whilst on active duty in Afghanistan, Ben suffered severe injuries after his Land Rover hit a land mine – leaving him with 39 separate injuries and the loss of both of his legs. Defying the doctors' beliefs, who had him written off on the battlefield, Ben is still soldiering on and a serving member of his regiment. However, while he continues his rehabilitation, Ben applied to Solider On! with a desire to understand in greater depth the IT industry.

Rob Lusher and Martin Simmelker from Fujitsu, a member of the Employers Forum for Disability, provided their expertise and recommendations to Ben when they met face to face. Outlining the work that a large global ICT solutions provider such as Fujitsu does, they were able to discuss the types of roles available in the arena and how he can best explore them. Fujitsu provided a post-assessment report and training suggestions designed to help Ben shape his skills in preparation for a possible career-move into the IT industry once he completes his medical treatment.

Nicholas Harrison, founder and MD of Soldier On!, comments, “It can often be difficult for service personnel to get back into everyday life, especially if they’ve been through something as traumatic as Ben. However, links with companies such as Fujitsu, make it possible for this group of individuals to be able to feel like they have a chance at a normal life after injury.”

Martin Simmelker, Fujitsu, said “It was inspiring to meet someone who has been so deeply affected by battle and yet was so full of motivation and drive. It is clear that Ben is completely committed to achieving his goals and getting the most from life and I hope that we have provided him, in some way, with the tools to do just that.”