Local authority leaders have welcomed a new system designed to make it easier for veterans to access care and support but cautioned against the duplication of services.
The Government has provided £50m to deliver a new veteran support network called VALOUR, aiming to address health, housing and employment concerns of UK-based veterans according to local demand.
The funding will assist the rollout of multiple VALOUR centres throughout the country, each equipped with Regional Field Officers to ensure a cohesive service is provided by charities and local governments.
Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board, Cllr David Fothergill, said: ‘Investment to improve support for our veterans is positive. It is important that this new service strengthens – but does not duplicate – the vast experience councils have of creating partnerships with local veteran’s services.’
Existing initiatives for veterans include career advancement programmes, social housing and homelessness support schemes. However, the Government’s new data-centric approach will improve these services in line with the ethos of the Armed Forces Covenant.
Mark Atkinson, Director General of the British Royal Legion, said: ‘Whilst there are a range of government services already in place for veterans, these services can vary depending on where you live and your access to information about the services available.’
‘This new investment will ensure that every veteran, regardless of where they live, can access joined up support services in the way they need it’, Veterans Minister, Al Carns added.
