Ruth Cadbury MP Hails New Veterans Strategy
Says it will support over 3,000 ex-service personnel in Hounslow
The Prime Minster at an event for veterans on Downing Street
November 21, 2025
Brentford & Isleworth MP Ruth Cadbury has welcomed the Government’s newly announced Veterans Strategy, which promises expanded support for the UK’s Armed Forces community—including more than 3,000 veterans living in the Borough of Hounslow. The strategy, unveiled this week, includes major investment in housing, health, and employment services, with a focus on tackling homelessness and improving access to local support.
A central feature of the strategy is a new £27 million funding pot for local authorities and organisations to bid for the creation of VALOUR centres—wraparound support hubs that could be located on high streets or in community centres. These hubs will offer veterans guidance in healthcare, housing, employment, finance, and wellbeing, helping them reintegrate into civilian life and access services more easily.
The funding aims to expand the existing VALOUR network and ensure that veterans in areas like Hounslow have access to tailored, in-person support. The Government has encouraged local councils and charities to apply for funding to open new centres in underserved areas.
The strategy also includes a £12 million extension of Op FORTITUDE, a programme that supports veterans at risk of or experiencing homelessness. The funding will deliver three years of targeted services, including emergency accommodation, tenancy support, and pathways into permanent housing.
In addition, the Government has committed to repairing over 40,000 Service Family Accommodation units, many of which have fallen into disrepair. This follows a landmark deal earlier this year that brought 36,000 forces family homes back into public ownership, enabling long-term investment in military housing stock.
Ms Cadburysaid the strategy would make a meaningful difference for veterans in her constituency.
“With over 3,000 veterans living in the Borough of Hounslow alone, I know that this additional support will make a big difference,” she said. “I particularly welcome the extra financial support to improve access to housing. The high cost of renting privately in West London continues to hit people locally, and I know that this extra funding to tackle homelessness will make a difference.”
Defence Secretary John Healey MP described the strategy as a recognition of veterans as “one of our greatest assets.”
“Our nation owes a duty to those who have served,” he said. “This announcement will boost support for veterans across the UK, from better healthcare to housing to jobs. Our message to veterans and the Armed Forces community is simple: we are on your side.”
Local authorities, including Hounslow Council, are expected to review the strategy and consider bids for VALOUR centre funding in the coming months. Community organisations working with veterans are also being encouraged to apply.
Further details about the Veterans Strategy can be found on the Government’s website.
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