Veteran support centre network to more than double ahead of Remembrance Sunday

The network of support centres helping veterans and their families find healthcare, jobs and housing is to more than double, growing from 14 to 34 organisations across the UK, the government has announced ahead of Remembrance Sunday.

More than £13.2 million is being shared between 21 organisations to launch the second wave of VALOUR-recognised centres by the beginning of 2027. The government estimates around one million veterans and their families will benefit from easier access to local support.

What VALOUR is

VALOUR is a £50 million system designed to help the UK's estimated two million veterans get the support they need, through recognised local centres, a helpline service and information on GOV.UK. Earlier this year, 14 organisations received more than £13 million to open the first wave of centres.

The system is overseen from a headquarters in the Office for Veterans' Affairs within the Ministry of Defence, with field officers working regionally to help councils, public services and charities work together.

"Year-round" thanks

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: "It is a privilege to be able to honour our veterans, not just as we mark Remembrance Day, but year-round as we remember the service and the sacrifice of those who fought for the lives we live today."

Veterans Minister Calvin Bailey visited Citizens Advice Rushmoor in Aldershot, one of the new centres, on Monday 2 November. He said: "Ahead of Remembrance Sunday, I'm pleased that we can pay tribute to the service and sacrifice of our armed forces community by giving veterans easier access to the support they need, regardless of where they are in the UK."

Calum Stewart, chief executive of Citizens Advice Rushmoor, said: "No veteran should have to navigate support alone. We know that good advice can make a lasting difference, helping people understand their options, resolve problems, and move forward with confidence."

Remembrance in Birmingham

The announcement comes as Birmingham prepares for Remembrance Sunday on 8 November, when the city's Civic Service of Remembrance and Parade takes place on Colmore Row. Services and wreath-laying will also be held at war memorials in neighbourhoods across the city, and the Frankfurt Christmas Market will open late that day as a mark of respect.

Getting help

Veterans and their families looking for support with health, housing, money or work can find information about VALOUR on GOV.UK, where details of the helpline and recognised centres are published. Many local organisations, including Citizens Advice, the Royal British Legion and other forces charities, can also help.

The rollout is part of the government's ten-year Veterans Strategy, and its funding is included in the Defence Investment Plan.