Mayor launches new partnership to support veterans across Liverpool City Region

Mayor Steve Rotheram has launched a new initiative to strengthen support for veterans across the Liverpool City Region.

The region will now be part of the Northern Pathfinder of the VALOUR programme, joining Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire and South Yorkshire. VALOUR is a new network designed to give veterans easier access to housing, employment, health services and other support, backed by £50m of government funding.

To support the rollout, the Mayor has also announced the Liverpool City Region Armed Forces Covenant Partnership, bringing together charities, local councils and other organisations to test and improve services for veterans.

Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, said:

“We’ve always had a deep-rooted respect for our Armed Forces in the Liverpool City Region and the sacrifices they make. That’s reflected in the incredible work of our veterans’ charities, our local networks, and the unwavering commitment of our councils and other public service providers through the Armed Forces Covenant. VALOUR will give us a chance to build on that strong foundation — working hand in hand with government and partners across the North to deliver better, more joined-up support for those who’ve served.”

Currently, support for veterans is delivered by a range of providers, but navigating the system can be difficult. VALOUR will help improve coordination and avoid duplication, ensuring veterans get the help they need more easily.

The government has also announced an extension of the Armed Forces Covenant Duty. This currently covers health, housing and education, but will now expand to include the needs of Armed Forces families and apply to more organisations, including government departments.

The new Liverpool City Region Covenant Partnership will help local organisations embed this extended duty into their work, making sure veterans and their families get the recognition and support they deserve.

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