Portsmouth 9,000+ ex-forces personnel will receive improved access to support through the Solent VALOUR Recognised Centre (VRC) programme, led by Veterans Outreach Support.
After a successful bid, which was officially endorsed by Amanda Martin MP, Veterans Outreach Support is set to receive £1,000,000 to unite specialist charities and specialist partners to deliver a coordinated, multi-agency approach to veteran support.
This will be a part of the UK’s first ever network of government-backed veteran support centres, a groundbreaking programme to provide veterans with easier access to local services across health, housing, employment and more.
This new approach to veteran support is set to include:
- Faster access to mental and physical health support.
- Reduced homelessness and improved housing stability.
- Better employment outcomes.
- Reduced isolation and improve wellbeing.
Labour is investing record levels in support for veterans and is renewing the nation’s commitment to those who serve with a 10-year Veterans Strategy, which aims to celebrate and support veterans, and help them to contribute to their local communities and the economy.
Amanda Martin MP for Portsmouth North said: “This is fantastic news for Portsmouth and the more than 5,000 veterans in our city, as well as those in surrounding areas. I’ve been proud to support this bid and the wider measures that Op VALOUR brings to our city’s veterans from the start. It’s great to see that commitment now delivering a dedicated Op VALOUR hub in Portsmouth.
This will make a real difference by bringing support closer to home and making it easier for veterans to access the services they need. It’s an important step in ensuring that those who have served our country are properly supported in our community.”
Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones MP said: “This government is stepping up the nation’s commitment to its veterans. We are building the first ever system that brings together a headquarters in the heart of government, coheres charities and support services, and connects a network of veteran support centres.
“With new connections across the system and field officers on the ground, VALOUR will build the most detailed picture yet of what’s working and what’s needed at a local and national level. Our message to veterans is simple: this Government is on your side.”
