Homeless veterans’ charity Launchpad is one of twelve projects that has secured a share of almost £4.5 million thanks to funding from the Office for Veterans’ Affairs’ Major Capital Grants programme.
The charity, which provides vital accommodation and targeted support to UK Armed Forces’ veterans who have struggled with their transition to civilian life, has been awarded £132,986 to increase the capacity of Hollyacre House in Sacriston, Durham.
The house has 15 self-contained flats and is at full capacity. This funding will create two new self-contained flats in unused attic space, increasing capacity to 17. The veterans can stay at the house for up to two years, with the average stay 12 months. Over a 25-year life-span, the new flats will benefit an additional 50 homeless veterans.
The Major Capital Grants programme is administered by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, and supports new build accommodation and significant refurbishment and extension of accommodation. The funding contributes to the Government’s ambition to reduce veteran homelessness and end rough sleeping.
Jill Murray, Chief Executive of Launchpad, said:
“This is wonderful news and I would like to thank the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust for awarding us with this grant which will create two additional flats at our house in Durham, thus taking two more homeless veterans off the streets.
“We have wanted to create the two new flats since taking ownership of the building in 2022 but have lacked funding. Demand for specialist veteran’s accommodation and services is increasing, with 361 homeless veterans’ approaching, or being referred to Launchpad (across all three of our houses) in 2024 alone.
“Work is expected to start on site later this year and I’m looking forward to seeing the completion of these much-needed flats for homeless veterans.”
Chief Executive of the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, Anna Wright, talks about the difference these grants can make:
“The Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund goes beyond providing shelter. These latest awards represent a package of support that begins with a home and ultimately enables veterans to start along a path to the life they want to live.”
Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said:
“We owe a profound duty to veterans who have served our country. The Armed Forces sets most people up for success, but it is only right that where veterans need support, the Government steps up.
“Our announcement of nearly £4.5 million in grants through the Veteran Capital Housing Fund, on top of Op FORTITUDE, will help fix the postcode lottery of housing support. The scheme has already helped over 900 veterans into new homes, and we’re determined to build on its success.
“This Government is delivering on our Plan for Change by renewing the nation’s contract with those who serve.”
Launchpad manages three houses in Liverpool, Newcastle, and Durham and accepts veterans from all over the UK providing accommodation for 98 homeless veterans.
