The UK government has committed nearly £3.7 million in capital housing grants to assist 14 organisations in developing and refurbishing homes for veterans, as outlined in a recent press release from the Ministry of Defence.
The funding aims to address housing needs, offering high-quality and affordable accommodation for veterans across the UK, fulfilling the Prime Minister’s promise that “homes will be there for heroes.”
The grants are primarily drawn from the £20 million Veterans Capital Housing Fund, a three-year programme designed to ensure a sustainable supply of social and affordable housing for veterans. The funds will support projects ranging from the replacement of roofs and boilers to energy-saving measures like insulation and accessibility improvements.
Minister for Veterans and People, Alistair Carns OBE MC MP, visited RBL Industries in Aylesford, Kent, to observe how the funding is being used to transform the lives of veterans. Carns stated: “The Prime Minister has promised homes will be there for heroes, and this funding builds on that promise. This multi-million pound award is an important step in our journey to deliver a sustainable supply of social and affordable veteran housing.”
One of the recipients, Beyond the Battlefield in Northern Ireland, was awarded under the £8.55 million Reducing Veteran Homelessness Programme. The grant will allow the organisation to offer specialised care to veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness, including mental health and employment support. Carns also emphasised that, “Coupled with this government’s commitment to exempt all our veterans from local connection social housing rules in England, we’re making huge strides to ensure all veterans have access to the warm and welcoming accommodation they deserve.”
Lisa Farmer, Chief Executive of RBLI (Royal British Legion Industries), expressed her gratitude for the funding: “I am absolutely delighted that we can build more homes, and delighted that more veterans will be able to benefit from work opportunities here.”
David Appleby, an RAF veteran and RBLI service user, added: “When I was homeless, I could not see any way out. It was the lowest point of my life… Having my own front door again changed everything for me.”
Oddly ‘boost’ still seems wrong. Forces personnel (vetarans, current, families and reserves) should have ongoing support from the UK Government in a range of forms (pay, housing, opportunities etc.) until death. I’m sure the vast majority can and would contribute to society in a positive way so it is a win win situation.