Launch of ‘VALOUR’ project to provide support to local Veterans

Thousands of veterans in the north of England will be the first to access streamlined support through new VALOUR network, introduced with £50million in funding.  

Tameside Council are part of the first VALOUR scheme and will serve as a blueprint for future networks across the UK.

The new pilot was launched on 26 June at Imperial War Museum by the Government’s Office for veterans’ Affairs in partnership with Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, West Yorkshire, and South Yorkshire.

The VALOUR network will deliver easier access to care and support with new regional networks connecting housing, employment and health service.

For Tameside, this will means serving personnel, and their families, can access services and help more readily.

To ensure veterans' support is accurately data driven, the scheme will be connecting with veteran charities and linking in with local and national services.

Executive Member for Finance and Resources and Armed Forces, Cllr Hugh Roderick said: “We are delighted that Tameside will be part of the trailblazing pilot. Over the coming months we will be working with government and the other regions to make sure Tameside veterans, and their families will have access to improved and tailored support. 

“We are excited to be a part of the scheme at such an early and exclusive stage as it will be an opportunity to show our appreciation and pride in Tameside for those who have served.  Our armed forces personnel past and present deserve nothing short of excellent and dedicated support, as their sacrifices give us our freedoms.”

The Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns, set out the plans for the pilot, explaining: “VALOUR will create a network of recognised centres across all UK nations and regions, with Regional Field Officers connecting charities, local government and service providers – while harnessing the power of data to shape improved services.  

“Development funding will soon be available for existing and new veteran centres to gain VALOUR accreditation and help signpost those requiring support to the right place. Further information on development funding for the VALOUR support centres will be released in the coming months, including eligibility and timelines.” 

For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/news/veterans-in-north-of-england-set-to-benefit-from-governments-new-support-network