Veterans Minister visits Ludgershall scheme aimed at getting ex-soldiers back on their feet
Three former military personnel are helping build new homes
A scheme that helps veterans develop new skills and secure affordable homing has been visited by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Johnny Mercer MP.
The Veteran Build Experience scheme is being delivered in partnership by Lovell, Stonewater and Alabaré, and is currently constructing homes at Drummond Park in Ludgershall.
The veterans, who have each been homeless since leaving the Armed Forces, learn construction skills over the course of a year with the programme, before seeking employment in the industry moving forward.
Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Johnny Mercer said: "Veterans leave their time in service with invaluable skills that can't be gained elsewhere, so it's great to see the construction industry setting ex-military personnel up for success as they move into civilian life.
"I was impressed with the partnership between industry and charities, which really shows how collaboration can help get veterans into employment."
There are currently three veterans working on the site, including RAF veteran Kevin Chapman, who found himself homeless after a relationship he was in broke down. Kevin has been working at the Drummond Park site since it began in May 2022 and hopes to move into one of the homes in August this year.
Ken Hames, Chief Operating Officer at Alabaré Veterans Community Build said:
“At Alabaré we see that, whilst most veterans make the transition to their civilian lives successfully, there are a significant minority who struggle, facing difficulties including unemployment and in some cases homelessness.
We recognise the huge potential for veterans who are keen to gain new skills, and for industry where recruitment is a huge challenge.
“Working with other charities such as Building Heroes, and alongside partners like Lovell and Stonewater, we can end homelessness for our veterans, and we welcome the Government’s commitment on this.”