The UK Authorities has introduced plans for a nationwide community of veterans assist centres as a part of a brand new Veterans Technique aimed toward bettering entry to providers for former Armed Forces personnel.
The Ministry of Defence stated £27 million in funding has been launched for native bids, forming a part of the £50 million VALOUR programme designed to attach veterans with well being, housing, employment, and welfare assist.
Defence Secretary John Healey stated the technique recognises veterans as one of many nation’s best belongings, including that “in the present day’s bulletins will increase assist for veterans throughout the UK, from higher healthcare to housing to jobs.”
In keeping with the federal government, the brand new centres will present a coordinated system of native and regional hubs linked to a nationwide headquarters inside the Ministry of Defence. They may provide direct entry to recommendation and providers whereas additionally supporting integration into civilian life.
The technique, the primary of its type in seven years, was developed alongside the Strategic Defence Evaluation and the Armed Forces Covenant. It additionally consists of an extra £12 million for veteran housing by way of the Decreasing Veteran Homelessness programme and an extension of Operation Fortitude, which has already helped greater than 1,000 veterans safe lodging.
Minister for Veterans and Individuals Louise Sandher-Jones stated “our new Veterans Technique basically resets how we have fun and assist the exceptional women and men who’ve served in our Armed Forces, while harnessing their invaluable expertise and abilities throughout society.”
The plan identifies three priorities: celebrating those that have served, harnessing veterans’ abilities for the broader financial system, and bettering entry to assist for these in want.
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander stated he was pleased with the contribution made by Scotland’s veterans, noting that round 176,000 stay within the nation. “The launch of the brand new Veterans Technique exhibits how passionate the UK Authorities is about supporting veterans throughout the entire of the UK,” he stated.
In Scotland, recruitment is below approach for a VALOUR supervisor to coordinate new subject officers, and native organisations can bid for improvement funding by way of the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Belief.
The Ministry of Defence stated the primary VALOUR-recognised centres are anticipated to open in spring 2026, with additional websites to observe throughout the UK.