Leading homelessness charity, ALABARÉ, is standing with veterans as the country marks Remembrance, and is reminding former military personnel that support is available to them.
The charity understands how triggering and unnerving this time of year can be for those who’ve served and lost friends and comrades, as well as those who have struggled to adjust to civilian life.
We honour those who have fallen and are ready to help those who need support to rebuild their lives, find a sense of purpose and break the cycle of homelessness.
How ALABARÉ supports veterans
ALABARÉ has more than 30 Homes for Veterans across the South West and Wales, offering supported living accommodation for veterans facing homelessness.
As well as being a safe and secure place to stay, colleagues also help residents with practical and holistic support such as financial budgeting, signposting to drug and alcohol recovery, and reinforcing and increasing employability skills and opportunities.
The Boots on the Ground programme gives veterans opportunities to get into the great outdoors, try out new activities and be more active, while boosting confidence, teamwork and reducing social isolation.
Karen Langley, the Boots on the Ground Manager for ALABARÉ, said:
“The run up to Remembrance, it is really difficult. I know for myself, when I left the forces, it took 19 years before I could actually wear my medals and go on parade.
“It’s a hard time for veterans, really hard time for quite a lot. A lot of people put on that painted smile, but deep down, they’re falling apart. At ALABARÉ, we’re about building that person and letting them know that they mean something. That they’re not a failure. That it’s just a blip.”
How you can help
This year, ALABARÉ’s Winter Appeal focuses on the support given to those who have served their country and are facing homelessness.
The charity supported 3,200 people in the last year, but demand is rising and the public’s help is needed more than ever.
Veterans’ referrals to ALABARÉ during that time increased by 122%, with many also dealing with mental health challenges and addiction struggles.
- A £258 donation could provide a transformative residential with life-affirming activities for those facing homelessness, working on suicide prevention, restoring confidence, self-worth, and hope through connection and nature-based activities
- £93 could provide a comfort pack full of homely touches. Offering residents more than warmth, but a sense of safety, dignity, and belonging.
- £38 could fund a critical one-to-one session with a support worker. This quiet moment of connection, trust, and hope can be a lifeline for someone seeking to break the cycle and isolation of homelessness.
- £12 could pay for an essential welcome pack – necessities like toothbrushes, toothpaste and toiletries for someone coming off the streets.
Supporters can donate to the ALABARÉ Winter Appeal by visiting https://alabare.co.uk/homeless-charity-winter-appeal/
