Veterans in Oldham are set to benefit from a new Government-backed support service, as Oldham Council joins the £50 million VALOUR pilot network launched this week.
The scheme called VALOUR is being rolled out across Greater Manchester, Liverpool, West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. It brings together councils, the NHS, charities and local organisations to provide more joined-up and targeted help for former members of the Armed Forces.
That means veterans will find it easier to get support with things like housing, health, employment and mental wellbeing, all in one place.
The official launch took place in Trafford, with Oldham Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah attending on behalf of the borough.
Cllr Arooj Shah said: "Oldham has always stood proudly with our Armed Forces, and I’m really proud that we’re now part of the VALOUR pilot. It’s a chance to build on everything we’re already doing to support veterans in our borough."
"We’re working towards the Gold Award in the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme, and we’ve just renewed our Armed Forces Covenant, a public promise that we’ll always do right by those who’ve served and their families."
"From offering discounted access to our leisure centres through Oldham Active, to making sure veterans aren’t disadvantaged when they access council services, this is about meaningful action, not just words."
"Being part of VALOUR means we can go even further, bringing local services and partners together to make sure no veteran falls through the cracks. I look forward to seeing the difference it makes for veterans here in Oldham."
"Oldham Council recognises the incredible contribution veterans have made to our country. We want to make sure they get the support they deserve, and we’re proud to be part of something that will truly make a difference to their lives."
Oldham Council first signed the Armed Forces Covenant in 2013 and reaffirmed that commitment earlier this year. The Council currently holds the Silver Award in the Armed Forces Employer Recognition Scheme and is now working towards Gold.
The VALOUR pilot will now run across the North of England, gathering data and feedback to help shape a national rollout from 2026.
Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns, said: "This Armed Forces Week, we are renewing our contract with those who serve and have served, by ensuring no veteran falls through the gaps."
"From South Yorkshire to Liverpool City Region, I am delighted that veterans across the North of England will be the first to benefit from VALOUR and get better access to the tailored support they need."
"By opening this pilot, we’re creating the blueprint that will transform veteran support nationwide, delivering on this Government’s Plan for Change."