Struggling to access support after leaving the armed forces? You’re not alone

Many ex-service personnel are facing a postcode lottery when it comes to getting the help they need- and deserve - after leaving the military.

A new report by the Commons Defence Committee has revealed that local support for veterans varies wildly depending on where you live. Despite the Armed Forces Covenant - a promise that those who serve or have served in the military should be treated fairly - many veterans say this isn’t happening in practice.

The covenant works… but not everywhere

Some local authorities are going the extra mile to support ex-service personnel. While others seem unclear on their responsibilities. This means that two veterans in different parts of the country can have completely different experiences when it comes to things like housing, healthcare, or accessing local services.

Mark Atkinson, from the Royal British Legion, told MPs there’s a "real distribution of views" on how the covenant should be applied. And committee chair Tan Dhesi MP said the system is a “lottery”, made even harder by how often military families have to move around.

Where to get help

If you’re a veteran struggling to access support, you’re not alone - and there is help out there. Here are some places to start:

1. Royal British Legion

The RBL offers financial help, including emergency grants, as well as support with housing, employment and recovery.
Visit the Royal British Legion

2. SSAFA – the Armed Forces charity

SSAFA supports veterans and their families with housing advice, mental health support, and practical help. They also offer grants to those in financial hardship. Check out SSAFA

3. Veterans’ Gateway

This is a great first stop if you’re not sure where to turn. They can connect you with a wide range of organisations offering help with housing, money, mental health and more.
Start with Veterans’ Gateway

4. Turn2us

Turn2us helps people access welfare benefits and charitable grants. If you’re a veteran facing financial hardship, they can help you search for grants and check what benefits you’re entitled to.
Use the Turn2us grant search

5. ABF The Soldiers’ Charity

They provide individual grants to soldiers, veterans and their families to help cover essentials like mobility aids, housing, or education.
Find out more

6. Support with money and benefit maximisation

We can support you if you’re struggling with debt, trying to make your money go further or need to check you’re claiming all the support you’re entitled too. Our team can help you:

• Maximise your income
• Help you to budget better
• Access benefits you might be missing out on
• Explore all your debt solutions
• Refer you to the right organisations for extra support

What needs to change?

While there is support out there, it shouldn’t be down to luck whether you can access it. The committee has called for clearer guidance and more funding so councils can properly deliver their responsibilities under the Armed Forces Covenant.

In the meantime, if you or someone you know is an ex-service member struggling to get support, it’s worth reaching out to one of the organisations above. You served your country - now it’s time you got the help you’re entitled to.