Veterans

Government Announces £1m Funding Boost To Help Homeless Veterans

The Government says the extra funding is part of its commitment to tackle all forms of homelessness and end rough sleeping (Picture: MOD).

Veterans at risk of becoming homeless are to be supported through new funding, the Government has announced.

The £1 million in extra funding will be shared among combined authorities across England, who will be able to use it to provide veterans with bespoke support to navigate civilian life.

The move is part of a commitment to tackle all forms of homelessness and end rough sleeping.

The Government says the money will help ensure those who have served their country have a roof over their heads and have the support they need once leaving the Armed Forces.

The Communities Secretary, James Brokenshire, said: "Our veterans play a vital role in keeping our country safe and many have dedicated their lives to the services."

He added:

"For those who fall on hard times and end up on the street, it is only right that we give them all the support they need to put a roof over their head."

The Government says money could also be used to direct former soldiers to existing specialist support services on offer, such as access to supported housing and training for staff on mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and how to support those former service personnel who may initially be reluctant to receive help.

Mr Brokenshire added: "Local authorities across the country already provide much-needed support for veterans, but this boost will allow them to go further and ensure that more people have access to valuable services, such as housing advice or mental health support."

Anoymous troops — The funding will also being used to direct former personnel to support services (Picture: PA).

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: "The vast majority of those leaving the Armed Forces go on to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives, but it’s right that we support those who struggle.

"One veteran on the street is one too many and I welcome today’s announcement on funding to address homelessness and rough sleeping," he added.

Special Forces Support Group anonymous 2 CROWN COPYRIGHT — The £1m funding will be divided among 11 authorities (Picture: Crown Copyright).

£1.2bn is currently being spent in the UK to tackle rough sleeping, but this £1m is directed specifically at veterans.

"A lot of the time with rough sleepers, people have lost faith in authority," says Housing Minister Heather Wheeler.

"[Veterans] have put their lives on the line for us, and I'm grateful... we want to make sure the right people are out there looking after the right people."

The £1m of funding will be divided among the following authorities: