A NEW service has been launched to support vulnerable veterans who are over 65. 

It has been launched by Salisbury-based charity Alabaré Homes for Veterans. 

Alabaré Homes for Veterans – Aged Veterans Support is a community based service, focused on reaching older people who are struggling with their physical or mental health, their accommodation, finances or are feeling isolated from friends and family.

The Alabaré team are able to visit veterans in their own home, support them with their individual needs, or help them access the most appropriate care provider.

Anne Williams, Alabaré’s care and support manager for Veterans England and Wales, said: “Through our existing work with homeless and vulnerable Veterans we have recognised that older Veterans can benefit from specialised support. Many Veterans have lived independently in their own homes for many years, but there may come a time when they start to struggle.”

“We can step in to give them support that can make a world of difference. It could be helping them get some adaptions made to their home; or helping them find social events to attend in the local community; or help them with their budgeting. All these things and many others can have a huge impact on a Veterans wellbeing and ultimately their ability to manage in the long-term.”

The service has been made possible thanks to support from The Royal British Legion and a grant from The Aged Veterans Fund, funded by the Chancellor using LIBOR funds.

Andrew Lord, the CEO at Alabaré said: “We are excited to be furthering our partnership with the Royal British Legion and other military organisations in delivering tailor made support for aged veterans who are in need.”

Alabaré Homes for Veterans already provides more than 100 bed spaces of accommodation of support for veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless in England and Wales.

Older Veterans who could benefit from this support can find out more at alabare.co.uk or by calling 01722 322882.

Veterans can refer themselves to the service, or referrals can be made through local support agencies.