More than 50 organisations supporting veterans across the South East came together earlier this month (22nd July) for the launch of the new ‘One Network’ online platform, designed to help professionals who support veterans and their families connect across the region.
As the portfolio lead organisation for the Thrive Together South East Partnership in Mind programme, VOS was proud to host the event at its headquarters, The Royal Maritime Hotel, in Portsmouth.
Funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, the programme has spent the past two years building sustainable pathways of support for the veteran community.
At the launch, Darren Hickie, CEO of Development & Promote, the platform developers, outlined the key features of the system, including:
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Members Directory – connect with colleagues across the region
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Learning Systems – share best practice and training materials
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Resources and Events – add events, news, resources and topics of interest
Speaking at the event, Ian Millen, CEO of VOS, said:
“We’re delighted to launch this vital tool, which will help local and regional organisations supporting the Armed Forces community, to connect, collaborate and communicate with each other through this innovative online platform.
Delivered as part of Thrive Together South East’s ‘Partnership in Mind’ programme, it is a valuable tool that will continue to grow and develop as we move into the VALOUR programme – effectively a legacy for Thrive Together and a foundation for VALOUR. As a VALOUR-recognised centre, this tool will remain central to our no-wrong-door approach in supporting the Armed Forces community, across this region.”
VALOUR is the Ministry of Defence’s new £50 million national programme, delivered by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, which aims to build on successful initiatives such as Thrive Together and improve access to the right support when it is needed.
Darren Hickie, CEO of Development & Promote, added:
“We were delighted that so many people came along to learn about the professional platform for the South East. The enthusiasm, interest and willingness to contribute made the event incredibly valuable. We heard some excellent questions and received thoughtful feedback and ideas that will help us make the platform even better. We are extremely grateful to everyone who took part and helped make the event such a positive and worthwhile experience.”
The presentation was followed by a lively question-and-answer session, along with lunch and a networking opportunity for attendees to connect and share ideas.
Wendy Pearson, VOS’ Network Development and Partnership Manager, said:
“The One Network Digital Platform event at the Royal Maritime Hotel was a fantastic opportunity to see so many organisations coming together with a shared commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community. Strong partnerships and effective connections are essential to ensuring veterans and their families can access the right support at the right time.
“This platform has the potential to strengthen collaboration across the sector, making services more visible, accessible and joined up. I would encourage organisations to sign up and become part of the network so that, together, we can deliver even better outcomes for our Armed Forces community.”
If you support veterans in your local community, you can register for FREE here.
More about VALOUR on the Ministry of Defence website here.
If you’re a veteran from the UK Armed Forces or the Merchant Navy (from any time of service) or a partner to one, VOS would love for you to join our community. We are here to offer our support: call us on 02392 731 767, visit an upcoming drop-in, or email wellbeing@vosuk.org
