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 Stephen Morgan 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.
Commenting, Stephen Morgan, MP for Portsmouth South, said:
“Standing up for our armed forces families, veterans and their families is a priority of mine and I’m proud to be part of government which is committed to protecting those who have served.
“That’s why I backed and gave my full support to the city’s bid for a Valour Recognised Centre. I’m delighted our bid has been a success.
“The investment from Government will ensure crucial and effective community support in our city and will mean that Portsmouth’s veterans will know where to turn for help and guaranteed the best support available.”
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.”
