SERVICE veterans struggling with the transition to civvy street will be able to access even more specialised support thanks to a charity’s growing housing programme.
A grant of £108,000 from ABF The Soldiers’ Charity will allow Alabaré Christian Care and Support to expand its Homes for Veterans initiative to cover Bristol, Gloucester Carmarthen, Pontypridd, Cardiff, Colwyn Bay and Llandudno Junction.
The scheme, which is the largest provider of supported housing to working-aged veterans outside London, already operates 25 properties and supports 116 former Service personnel who have found the transition to civilian life challenging.
The money, which was donated on behalf of all the Regiments and Corps of the Army, will help fund staff members in the locations as well as maintain existing homes.
General the Lord Dannatt said: “I am hugely impressed with the work that Alabaré [is] doing in southern England and Wales.
“Homes for Veterans provide exactly the security and sense of belonging that is so necessary when life has become a challenge. To be among former colleagues from the military and staff who understand the pressures of Service life is half the battle.
“The other half is getting back on one’s feet and moving forward again with pride and purpose. Alabaré helps veterans do this in a marvellous way. I commend all those involved, especially the very dedicated staff in the Homes.
“Alabaré is making a big difference – and it has big ambitions to be able to help even more veterans in other parts of the country too.”
Wendy Searle, head of communications at ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, added: “We know that around 80 per cent of welfare services go to soldiers, so supporting tri-service partners like Alabaré is very important to our work.
“The provision Alabaré offers is vital to those struggling with civilian life and we are delighted to support their continued efforts to provide support for our veterans.”
Find out more
To find out more about Alabaré, visit www.alabare.co.uk, or to read about the work of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, visit www.soldierscharity.org