This article was written in December 2022, since when some available support and services may have changed. Please check with relevant organisations, or speak to VOS if required.
Times are tough for many of us this season. With prices on the rise for essentials like food and heating, we want you to know that local veteran support is available.
Veterans Outreach Support helps those who have served in the Military or Merchant Navy and their families to access life-changing resources like the ones linked below. You can click the links in each section to explore all the places you can find help, warmth, and support this season. Buttons with a medal (
) are resources designed especially for veterans and military families.
(Please share this resource with any members of the veteran community you know who may find it useful, and feel free to reach out to us directly at 02392 731 767 on weekdays from 0900-1700.)
Free Food Items
There are several well-stocked food banks and food pantries in our local region. All are welcome to visit them or make use of them as needed.
Hot Meals
You can enjoy warm meals with other people in your community, or have them delivered to you if that better suits your needs. Check out the options at the links below.
You can also find coffee, tea, and snacks at many Veterans Outreach Support events, including hot food at our new ‘Mid-Month Musters’ at the Royal Maritime Club. Click here for details.
Veteran Support for Living Essentials
As a veteran, veteran’s family member, or simply a local citizen, you can access some useful essential living support options that may help you save money.
Warm Spaces
Nobody should have to spend time out in the cold when there are warm spaces available to use for free, all season. These include local libraries, veteran support drop-in days, help for those experiencing (or at risk of) homelessness, and much more.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
VOS has an in-house clinical team that delivers psychiatry and psychology services, mental health therapy, and substance misuse support to veterans. Social groups, wellbeing activities, and a variety of support resources can also be very useful for maintaining good mental health:
Low-Cost Travel
Fuel prices have been steadily rising and leaving many of us choosing alternative travel options. The ones listed below might be both good for the environment and useful for you.
Holiday Events
VOS is holding fun, free events throughout the weeks and every weekend leading up to Christmas 2022. We’re not alone! Check out these links for cost-effective holiday cheer.
We would love to support you or direct you to the right place for your support needs.
If you’re a veteran from the UK Armed Forces or the Merchant Navy (from any time of service) or a partner to one, join our community at Veterans Outreach Support. We are here to offer our help: call us on 02392 731 767, visit an upcoming drop-in, or email admin@vosuk.org.
VOS is immensely grateful to the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust and the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity, as without their support and funding we would not be able to provide resources like these.
