New hub puts veterans first
The UK government has relaunched and expanded its Veterans News and Communications Hub – a central platform to showcase and coordinate nationwide support for the UK’s veteran community.
The initiative, backed by the Ministry of Defence and Cobseo (The Confederation of Service Charities), aims to bring together services across employment, healthcare, education, housing, and mental health for the estimated 2.4 million veterans in Great Britain.
The platform is designed to give “forces-friendly” organisations a space to promote opportunities and services for veterans, while improving access to care and ensuring former service personnel can continue to thrive in civilian life.
Operation VALOUR at the heart of reform
A flagship feature of the hub is Operation VALOUR, a new support programme overseen by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs. It includes a central HQ for data and policy, a network of regional support centres, and field officers who connect veterans with local authorities, charities, and health services.
The programme is intended to end the postcode lottery in veteran care and make it easier for former service personnel to find the support they need, regardless of where they live or when they served.
Mental health campaign targets urgent needs
Also featured is Operation Lifeline, launched by the Veterans’ Foundation to tackle rising mental health concerns and prevent suicide among ex-service personnel. The campaign provides 24/7 crisis lines, therapy, support dogs, and social groups.
Through a “Sponsor-A-Veteran” model, members of the public can fund direct, ongoing care for those in need.
Boosting jobs and small business support
Veteran employment is a major focus. The hub promotes initiatives such as Op ASCEND, employer guidance for hiring veterans, and work by the Forces Employment Charity. It also highlights that 6% of UK small businesses are veteran-led – a figure the government hopes to increase through new enterprise support programmes.
Reed Group’s Armed Forces Veterans and Reservists Group is also featured, offering mentoring, awareness talks, and internal recruitment pathways for veterans transitioning into civilian roles.
Spotlight on female veterans and storytelling
A nationwide photo campaign is underway to promote the Female Veterans Transformation Programme, ahead of the launch of its Female Veterans Toolkit in November. Photoshoots are taking place across the UK, including in Plymouth, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Cannock and Winchester.
Meanwhile, Reading Force is running a 2025 memoir writing competition for serving personnel, veterans, and their families – with publication opportunities available to winners.
Regional support across devolved nations
The hub provides tailored guidance for veterans in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland through regional commissioners and devolved support services. These include education, housing and employment advice adapted to local needs.
Building connection and community
The expanded hub also promotes organisations such as the Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Clubs, which now operate in over 400 locations across the UK. These informal groups aim to reduce isolation and build community among ex-forces personnel.
With working-age veterans expected to make up 44% of the UK veteran population by 2028, the hub represents a long-term commitment to recognising their contribution and supporting their future.
