The UK Government has announced plans for a nationwide network of veterans support centres as part of a new Veterans Strategy aimed at improving access to services for former Armed Forces personnel.
The Ministry of Defence said £27 million in funding has been released for local bids, forming part of the £50 million VALOUR programme designed to connect veterans with health, housing, employment, and welfare support.
Defence Secretary John Healey said the strategy recognises veterans as one of the country’s greatest assets, adding that “today’s announcements will boost support for veterans across the UK, from better healthcare to housing to jobs.”
According to the government, the new centres will provide a coordinated system of local and regional hubs linked to a national headquarters within the Ministry of Defence. They will offer direct access to advice and services while also supporting integration into civilian life.
The strategy, the first of its kind in seven years, was developed alongside the Strategic Defence Review and the Armed Forces Covenant. It also includes an additional £12 million for veteran housing through the Reducing Veteran Homelessness programme and an extension of Operation Fortitude, which has already helped more than 1,000 veterans secure accommodation.
Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones said “our new Veterans Strategy fundamentally resets how we celebrate and support the remarkable men and women who have served in our Armed Forces, whilst harnessing their invaluable talent and skills across society.”
The plan identifies three priorities: celebrating those who have served, harnessing veterans’ skills for the wider economy, and improving access to support for those in need.
Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said he was proud of the contribution made by Scotland’s veterans, noting that around 176,000 live in the country. “The launch of the new Veterans Strategy shows how passionate the UK Government is about supporting veterans across the whole of the UK,” he said.
In Scotland, recruitment is under way for a VALOUR manager to coordinate new field officers, and local organisations can bid for development funding through the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.
The Ministry of Defence said the first VALOUR-recognised centres are expected to open in spring 2026, with further sites to follow across the UK.
Agree with mod offering support to former military personnel and help to integrate back into civilian life once military career is over.