The UK Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting veterans through a range of measures aimed at housing, healthcare, employment, and recognition of their service.
Responding to a written question from Maureen Burke MP, Al Carns, Parliamentary Under-Secretary at the Ministry of Defence and Minister for Veterans, outlined the extensive steps being taken to ensure that veterans receive the support they deserve.
Carns began by asserting the Government’s dedication, stating, “This is a Government of service that will always stand up for those who serve our country. I am working across government and with civil society to ensure veterans get access to the support they need.”
Housing Support
Significant progress has been made in tackling homelessness among veterans, with Carns pointing to the continuation of the Reducing Veterans Homelessness Programme, including Operation FORTITUDE. The initiative, which received an additional £3.5 million in funding in November 2024, offers a single referral pathway for veterans at risk of homelessness.
“Housing support is available across the United Kingdom through Op FORTITUDE,” Carns explained. “This system provides housing guidance and assistance to veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. As of 5 January 2025, 2,993 referrals have been made and 854 veterans have been supported into housing.”
He also highlighted earlier reforms that exempt veterans from local connection and residency tests when applying for social housing in England, ensuring easier access to housing.
Healthcare Services
Specialist healthcare services are a cornerstone of the Government’s support for veterans. Carns noted that Operation RESTORE provides care for veterans with physical health problems, while Operation COURAGE offers mental health support to service leavers, veterans, and reservists.
“As of 3 January 2025, over 35,000 referrals have been made to Op COURAGE and Op RESTORE has over 1,000 service users,” he stated. While healthcare provision varies across the UK’s devolved administrations, these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to meeting veterans’ diverse needs.
Employment Opportunities
Tailored employment programmes, such as the Career Transition Partnership, help veterans transition to civilian life. Carns described this as “the initial point of provision for those leaving military service in search of new job opportunities.”
Legislative and Financial Support
The Government say it has delivered its manifesto commitment to include the Veteran Card in the list of acceptable voter identification documents, with the legislation taking effect in December 2024.
Further, Carns highlighted the launch of an LGBT financial recognition scheme in December 2024. With a £75 million budget—50% higher than the recommendation in the Etherton review—the scheme has enabled the delivery of almost all of the 49 recommendations made by Lord Etherton.
Carns concluded by reaffirming the Government’s ongoing support for veterans, stating, “We will continue to stand up for those who served and have served and are currently reviewing how we can make veterans’ support more institutionally resilient.”
One thing missing is NHS Dentistry. Although, to be fair, NHS Dentistry has been AWOL for a long time!
Most of this support never transpires. I had to write to my MP to get the NHS to give me an appointment (hearing loss and tinnitus) – so much for veteran priority!
So many different charities that apparently support veterans. But, I have never got any help from them.
Unlike the USA, we are not valued or treated with respect for our service.