Veterans Outreach Support’ (VOS) has received £81,000 funding from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) to deliver welfare, wellbeing and mental health services, supporting Royal Navy and Royal Marines veterans in Portsmouth and the Solent region. The project will enable us to continue to provide support to our local veterans and their immediate families and build connections within their communities.
This will include:
Reducing isolation through our weekly social groups in Portsmouth, Stubbington and Newport on the Isle of Wight, as well as a diverse range of wellbeing activities suitable for all interests (from crafting to history walks and singing) that all provide a sense of community and comradeship.
Promoting health and wellbeing through monthly Drop-in Days held in Portsmouth and on the Isle of Wight. VOS works with partner organisations to provide free health checks and preventative health screenings specifically designed for veterans, helping to improve the holistic health of all our service users.
Supporting transition from military to civilian life. We recognise that many struggle with this adjustment, so we work closely with other supportive and statutory organisations to assist veterans during this difficult phase. Our welfare team provides service users with advice, guidance and support on benefits, pensions, housing, finance and debt and we support and signpost those with employment needs.
Ian Millen, VOS CEO said:
“We are incredibly grateful to the RNRMC for this funding which will help strengthen support for Royal Navy and Royal Marines veterans, their spouses, partners, widows and carers, enabling VOS to deliver comprehensive support for them in our local community, helping to build confidence, connection and stability beyond service.
“It enables us to take the essential steps forward as part of our mission to ensure no veteran faces the challenges of civilian life alone.”
