Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, what steps he is taking to improve access to support services for veterans in rural areas.

This government is committed to ensuring that veterans and their families are easily able to access support across the country when and where it is needed, including rural or remote areas.

Last year we launched a new Veterans Strategy which recognises veterans as a national asset and resets the nation’s relationship with those who have served. Alongside this, we launched the £50 million VALOUR programme, which will make it easier for veterans to access the care and support they deserve.

The first phase of VALOUR-Recognised Centres (VRC) will open shortly and the application process for the second round of funding is ongoing. A new VALOUR digital service will also be available to help veterans and their families find the right support, especially those unable to travel to a VRC. It will include a broader range of support providers with a new process for organisations to be added.

For general support, MOD Veterans’ Services provides tailored, holistic information, guidance and welfare support to those who need it through a national network of Case Managers across the UK, ensuring that individuals and families receive comprehensive, joined-up support tailored to their needs.

In addition, dedicated support is available to veterans at risk of or experiencing homelessness through Op FORITUDE, or for mental and physical health needs through Ops COURAGE and RESTORE. Employment support is delivered through Op ASCEND and programmes such as the Career Transition partnership. For those in contact with or at risk of contact with the Criminal Justice System support is available through Op NOVA.