Veterans across the UK will have easier access to essential care and support under a new VALOUR system announced today, as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.
£50 million of funding will establish a network of VALOUR-recognised support centres and deploy Regional Field Officers to connect local, regional, and national services, harnessing data to improve service provision.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP and Veterans Minister Al Carns announced the new service during VE week, marking a major milestone in fulfilling the government’s manifesto promise to fully implement the Armed Forces Covenant. The new Regional Field Officers will collaborate with charities, service providers, and local government to provide evidence and feedback-driven support for veterans in areas such as housing, employment, health, and welfare.
The first VALOUR support centres will be operational next year, tailored to local needs and focused on specific demands, including advice on booking GP appointments, accessing welfare, or addressing housing issues. The Ministry of Defence will invite veterans to help design VALOUR through research, focus groups, and feedback. Initially focusing on veterans, the service is designed to scale up to support the wider Armed Forces community in the future.
John Healy, Defence Secretary, commented:
“The nation owes a duty to those who’ve served to defend our country, and it is only right that the Government steps up our support to them. The Armed Forces set most people up for success in life but when veterans need help then support is too often a postcode patchwork.
“Our plan to develop a UK-wide veterans support service will work with enterprising health, employment and housing charities and it is backed by the one of the largest ever Government funding commitments to veterans.
“This Government is delivering on our Plan for Change and renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve.”
VALOUR will use data to shape better service provision and ensure the right support is available at a local level. Field officers will work with local services, including government bodies, to share best practices and guidance, applying the principles of the Armed Forces Covenant, which will soon gain legal footing as part of the manifesto commitment.
Over the past year, the Government has delivered for veterans by removing the local connection requirement for social housing and awarding £3.5 million in new funding for homelessness services. The recent launch of Op ASCEND has been critical in helping veterans access meaningful jobs and career opportunities.
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