Ministry of Defence estimates that there are around two million veterans in the UK. The figures suggest that over the next 10 years, the number of veterans in Great Britain is expected to decrease by around one million, to approximately 1.6 million by 2028
In recent years, veterans have traditionally made up around 5 per cent of the wider population and the proportion of rough sleepers with an armed forces background has matched the same rate so they have not been disproportionately represented on the streets.
According to the UK Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government statistics, released 24th February 2022, reported that there were around 2,440 rough sleepers in England. This number may seem small compared to the overall population, but it is a significant and troubling issue. Many of these veterans have served their country with distinction, only to be left without a roof over their heads when they return home.
In the United Kingdom, the issue of homelessness among veterans is a shame and a disgrace to the government. Despite being a wealthy and developed nation, many former members of the military are forced to live on the streets or in temporary accommodation due to a lack of support and resources. This is a problem that has persisted for years and one that continues to plague the country.
There are a variety of reasons why veterans may become homeless. For some, it is due to a lack of affordable housing or employment opportunities. Others may struggle with mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can make it difficult for them to maintain a stable living situation. Some may also have problems with substance abuse or addiction, which can lead to homelessness.
Despite the efforts of various organizations and charities to help homeless veterans, the UK government has been slow to address this issue. Many veterans feel that they have been forgotten or abandoned by the government, and that they are not receiving the support and assistance they deserve.
One of the main reasons for this lack of support is the government’s focus on austerity measures. These measures, which have been in place since 2010, have resulted in cuts to social services and benefits, making it harder for people to access the support they need. This has had a disproportionate impact on veterans, who are often struggling with complex and multifaceted issues that require specialized support.
In addition, there are often long waiting lists for social housing and other forms of assistance, leaving veterans in limbo and unable to find a permanent home. Many are forced to rely on temporary accommodation, such as hostels or shelters, which are often overcrowded and unhealthy.
Another major problem is the lack of awareness and understanding of the issues faced by homeless veterans. Many people do not realize the scale of the problem or the unique challenges that these individuals face. This lack of awareness can make it difficult for veterans to access the support and services they need, as well as for organizations to raise funds and awareness for their work.
The UK government needs to take urgent action to address the issue of homelessness among veterans. This could include providing more funding for organizations that work with homeless veterans, increasing the number of social housing units available, and improving access to mental health and addiction services.
Additionally, the government should work to raise awareness of the issue and the challenges faced by homeless veterans. This could involve working with the media to highlight the issue, as well as partnering with organizations and charities that are already working on the ground to help these individuals.
Ultimately, the shame of homelessness among veterans in the UK reflects the government’s failure to provide the support and resources that these individuals need and deserve. It is a reminder that we must do more to ensure that all members of our society, including those who have served in the military, can live a dignified and fulfilling life.
Veteran Charities:
British Army Charities: https://www.army.mod.uk/people/live-well/charities/
Royal British Legion: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk
SSAFA: https://www.ssafa.org.uk
Blind Veterans UK: https://www.blindveterans.org.uk
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Thank you David for the GETTR link to this important article.
It is an outrage that any veteran service member should find themselves abandoned in this way while unearned largesse is showered on illegal aliens, who want for nothing. Am posting this on GETTR too. Thank you also for the above links so that we may help, either financially or with a job referral. Our veterans deserve so much. This lack of care is disgusting.
Penny thank you for the very kind words about my article, I am a veteran and find this a shame/stain on our society that can allow this to help to people that have given so much. Thank you for commenting and thank you for sharing. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Times are hard this year more than many other years, but if you can help support with a small donation a veterans charity then please do, links above
I’ve had the privilege as a civvy of working along side the British Army both in and out of theatre (Bosnia) and have the greatest respect for them, their service and their sacrifices. It is beyond shameful that ex-military personnel are left in this state, I want to say it surprises me but having had family members serve in both World Wars it doesn’t. How the UK can tolerate these brave men/women suffering like this when illegals are being put up in warmth/comfort is disgusting, shame on all political parties for letting this happen and continue to happen. Thank you for highlighting this and the links Ged. Best wishes to you and yours over the Christmas/New Year
Wendy Thank you so much for the kind words, and as a veteran myself but being very lucky not to be in that position of being homeless, it truly is a SHAME on the Government that allows this to continue, Merry Christmas to you and your family.