A new national programme is set to transform how ex-forces personnel in Tameside access vital support services.
The initiative, known as VALOUR, aims to make it easier for current and former members of the Armed Forces, along with their families, to access help across health, housing and employment.
Greater Manchester has successfully secured funding to deliver a VALOUR Recognised network, meaning veterans across the region will benefit from improved, joined-up services through an enhanced ‘Live Well’ offer tailored to the Armed Forces community.
As part of the programme, Tameside will receive a share of £1 million to provide targeted local support in partnership with armed forces organisations, charities and community networks.
The wider £50 million VALOUR programme will include a central hub within the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, part of the Ministry of Defence, alongside field officers and a new online platform. Together, these elements aim to improve communication between councils, charities and service providers, helping veterans access the right support more easily.
Councillor Hugh Roderick, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Finance and Resources and Armed Forces, welcomed the announcement.
He said: “It’s great news that Greater Manchester has been successful in its VALOUR bid. Often, there is a disconnect between veterans and the services there to support them. This investment is designed to close that gap and ensure that, wherever in Greater Manchester a veteran is, they will receive the help they need.
“But most importantly, this gives us a clear, funded pathway to help our armed forces community in Tameside, in recognition of the service that our veterans have given our country, both past and present.”
Further details about how the programme will be rolled out locally are expected to be announced in due course.