Connecting Veterans in Lancashire

Age UK Lancashire are delighted to launch a new project that will connect veterans from Lancashire who are experiencing loneliness or isolation.

Funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, Age UK Lancashire will connect with veterans and introduce them to organisations across Lancashire to utilise the wealth of knowledge and opportunities available to veterans within the county. Outreach workers from Age UK Lancashire will support veterans to reduce any barriers such as transport or confidence which may prevent them from socialising or meeting with others.

Teri Stephenson, Chief Executive Officer at Age UK Lancashire said:

“We know there is a huge need for this project in the county with over 50,000 veterans living in Lancashire. I’m delighted that using our expertise and our network of partners we can target and support some of the most vulnerable veterans and help connect them with their community and help them to live their best later life.”

Age UK Lancashire are no strangers to working with isolated veterans with the delivery of successful projects such as ‘Veterans Support in the Community’ in 2021 which supported 70 veterans to connect with their local community whilst instilling independence. Bryan was one such beneficiary who, thanks to our veteran’s project, was united with his medal and was introduced to other veterans to share their experiences together.

Working on the project will be Jaqui Collins, who has 32 years’ military experience under her belt and vast experience of working with veterans enabling them to access a wide range of opportunities and ongoing support.

Jaqui said:

“This project is so important to bring veterans from Lancashire together and open their eyes to opportunities offered to veterans. As a veteran, I’m very passionate to support others as I know so many are isolated and lonely, and this is what this project aims to tackle.

Many don’t know that to qualify as a veteran you only have to give one day's service.”

If you are a veteran or know a veteran then please reach out to Age UK Lancashire by calling 0300 303 1234 or email advice@ageuklancs.org.uk.