The UK government has unveiled its first nationwide network of veteran support centres, marking a major shift in how former armed forces personnel access essential services.
Under the new VALOUR programme, 14 centres across the country will receive funding of up to £1 million each, forming a coordinated support system designed to simplify access to healthcare, housing, employment, and wellbeing services for thousands of veterans.
A central hub for veteran support
Backed by more than £13 million in initial funding—and part of a wider £50 million investment—the initiative aims to eliminate the fragmented nature of existing support systems. For the first time, veterans will be able to rely on a single, local point of contact for a wide range of services.
The programme will be overseen by a central headquarters within the Office for Veterans’ Affairs at the Ministry of Defence. It will also include field officers and a digital platform to improve coordination between charities, councils, and service providers.
Government pledges long-term commitment
The launch aligns with the government’s broader 10-year Veterans Strategy, which focuses on improving quality of life for former service personnel while helping them remain active contributors to society and the economy.
Minister for Veterans and People Louise Sandher-Jones MP said: “This government is stepping up the nation’s commitment to its veterans. We are building the first ever system that brings together a headquarters in the heart of government, coheres charities and support services, and connects a network of veteran support centres.
With new connections across the system and field officers on the ground, VALOUR will build the most detailed picture yet of what’s working and what’s needed at a local and national level. Our message to veterans is simple: this Government is on your side”.
Local impact already taking shape
One of the flagship centres in Salisbury, run by charity Alabaré, is set to play a key role in the South West, where around 265,000 veterans live. Working alongside multiple military charities, the centre will coordinate access to housing, healthcare, employment, and wellbeing services.
Andrew Lord, CEO of Alabaré, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Veterans Minister to the South West’s VALOUR‑recognised centre in Salisbury. The VALOUR programme is one of the most significant opportunities in recent years to transform how the UK’s Armed Forces community accesses support, recovery pathways, and long‑term independence. ALABARÉ’s partnership with Defence Medical Welfare Service, Defence Gardens, Icarus, The Poppy Factory, The Warrior Programme and Armed Forces Equine Charity reflects both our long‑standing commitment to supporting veterans and the strength that comes when organisations work together”.
Nationwide reach across the UK
The network spans all four nations of the UK, with centres offering diverse services tailored to local needs—from mental health support in Northern Ireland to community engagement initiatives in Greater Manchester.
Other initiatives include:
- A wellbeing hub in County Fermanagh focused on mental health
- A drop-in advisory centre in Glasgow
- A sports and community facility in Port Talbot, South Wales
- Employment-focused programmes in Kent helping veterans re-enter the workforce
More centres to join soon
The government has confirmed a second round of funding will open later this spring, allowing more organisations to apply to join the VALOUR network and expand its reach even further.
VALOUR veteran support centres (initial network)
- Northern Ireland: Brooke House
- Scotland: SSAFA
- Wales: Bulldogs Boxing and Community Activities
- North East England: Northumberland County Council; East Durham Veterans Trust
- North West England: Armed Forces Community HQ – Greater Manchester; Veterans in Communities
- Yorkshire & the Humber: Hull 4 Heroes
- West Midlands: Telford & Wrekin Council
- East Midlands: Derbyshire Addictions Advice Service
- South East England: Veterans Outreach Support; Royal British Veterans Enterprise
- South West England:*Alabaré; Improving Lives Plymouth