Question
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to improve support for veterans.
Answer
Work continues across government and with civil society to ensure veterans get access to the support they need.
Last month, the Prime Minister announced the continuation of funding for the cross-UK Reducing Veterans Homelessness Programme, including Op FORTITUDE. This system provides housing guidance and assistance to veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. As of 30 November 2024, over 2,850 referrals have been made and 822 veterans have been supported into housing.
This is in addition to his commitment earlier in the year that veterans will be exempt from local connection and residency tests when applying for social housing in England.
Veterans can also access a range of tailored employment support, including the Career Transition Partnership, which is the initial point of provision for those leaving military service in search of new job opportunities.
Armed Forces Champions are also based across the UK’s JobCentre Plus network, providing tailored advice and employability support to members of the armed forces community.
In England Op RESTORE provides specialist care to veterans who have physical health problems, and Op COURAGE, a mental health specialist service helps veterans and their families.