The scheme, which operates launches from today, allows employers to take advantage of the tax relief, which will be saving them a 13.8% contribution based on employees earnings of more than £732 a month.

The relief, which was pledged during the 2019 Conservative manifesto, is available to all employers of veterans regardless of when the veteran left the regular Armed Forces, providing that they have not been employed in a civilian capacity since leaving service.

A person qualifies as a veteran if they have served at least one day in the regular or reserve Armed Forces, The Daily Telegraph reports.

Johnny Mercer, the veterans minister, said the relief was targeted for one year, “as we know that for veterans, the period where they are transferring out of the military and into civilian life, is key”.

He said: “Extending opportunities for veterans to get into employment very soon after leaving the military will only help in ensuring that this transition goes smoothly.”

Writing in The Daily Telegraph today, Mr Mercer said: “When I left the Army in 2013, it struck me that many of the skills I gained during my time in service were just as relevant in the office as they were on the battlefield.

“Skills like leadership, communication and camaraderie – all things that the Armed Forces teaches you – are at the core of any workplace.”

However, Mr Mercer warned that sometimes such skills and unique experiences are “underutilised by employers” and hoped that today’s announcement would “further incentivise employers to make use of the immense skills and talent that veterans have to offer”.

He urged businesses to “consider how hiring a veteran can positively shape your workforce and create a stronger workplace community”.

Mr Mercer added: “This is a win-win for businesses and veterans. Employers can take advantage of the tax relief, while also bringing on board immensely talented individuals who have served their country.”