ALABARÉ is pleased to have been awarded £499,958 from the Government’s Veterans’ Capital Housing Fund to refurbish and extend a home in Pontypridd, Wales.
The £4.5 million Fund, distributed by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs, has been shared between 19 organisations across the UK, and is aimed at reducing homelessness and rough sleeping for former military personnel.
ALABARÉ has more than 30 Homes for Veterans across the South West and Wales, offering not only supported living accommodation, but also pastoral support to rebuild confidence, improve self-esteem, gain employability skills and break the cycle of homelessness.
Where will the money go?
The grant awarded to our Pontypridd service will increase capacity at the house by 83% and include a two-storey extension to the main building.
That will provide more space for veterans needing support who have more complex mobility and health needs.
The charity will additionally convert an under-utilised outhouse to create two studio flats for veterans who are closer to moving on, so they can live more independently, with the reassurance of having on-site support if needed.
Further internal refurbishments will see the kitchen replaced and upgraded, an extended dining area, the conservatory upgraded to become a refreshed communal area, and a new sensory and well-being room to support residents with PTSD and mental health conditions.
Planning permission for the alterations has already been granted by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, with work due to get underway imminently.
Andrew Lord, Chief Executive of ALABARÉ, said:
“We’re pleased to have been recognised by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs to provide homes, restore hearts, and empower minds for people who have given so much for the country and our freedoms.”
“All the changes within the Pontypridd house will ensure more veterans can have space within accessible accommodation, with trauma-informed, personalised care, while building life skills to help them towards independence.
“The new facilities will also be compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act, ensuring veterans with increasing health needs and mobility concerns can still access the support they deserve.”
Anna Wright, Chief Executive of the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, said:
“These awards will provide more than just homes – they’re offering a lifeline of support and stability to veterans and their families when they need it the most, helping to set them on a pathway to a more positive future.”
