60% Of Veterans Volunteered During Pandemic, Research Finds

Veterans across the UK have stepped up to support those in need during the coronavirus pandemic, a study has found.

The research, sponsored by the Office for Veterans' Affairs (OVA) and carried out by King’s College London, found that 60% of veterans have volunteered in their community to help those affected by the pandemic.

Of those already volunteering, 66% reported an increase in their time spent helping others as a result of COVID-19.

Johnny Mercer MP, Minister for Defence People and Veterans, said the findings of the research "show the huge contribution" veterans make in their communities.

"Their commitment to serving this country does not end when they leave the military," he said.

"It’s humbling to see that so many have stepped up to help those in need during this extraordinary year."

As well as the increased time spent volunteering, the study, called Veterans-CHECK, found that 88% of veterans gave to charity in the last 12 months and 20% have given more to charity this year due to their desire to help out more during the pandemic.

Professor Sir Simon Wessely, director of the King’s Centre for Military Health Research, King’s College London, said: "What this study shows is that our veterans have been affected by the COVID pandemic in similar ways to all of us. 

"But they have also continued to contribute to this country, much as they did during service, with so many of them now employed as key workers or volunteering. 

"I am sure everyone will want to acknowledge and thank the veteran community for all they are doing to support the nation at this time," he added.

"The spirit shown by Captain Tom Moore continues through the generations."

The Veterans-CHECK study will continue into the New Year, where it will report on the health effects on veterans during the pandemic.