How we help

Who we help

– Any veteran from the Armed Forces including Reservists and the Merchant Navy
– Anyone who served in the Emergency Services
– Any serviceman or woman who is about to leave or is leaving

It doesn’t matter how long ago you left or in what circumstances: we are here to help.

How we can help

Some of the things we can sort out include:

– Housing
– Making sure you have the right benefits, allowances and pensions
– Supporting you to access the right medical treatment
– Sorting out problems around debt
– Support with drug and alcohol problems
– Volunteering work
– Writing CVs and getting you back to work

Many of us are veterans so we know what it’s like trying to adjust to civilian life: call us or pop in and let’s see how we can help.

Video about what we do

New experiences, new friends

Civvy street can feel isolating. We help you get out there and build new friendships.

What we get up to:

– boccia
– cooking
– cycling
– fitness groups
– football
– gardening
– get-togethers like coffee and chat
– walking
– woodwork

Have a lifelong dream? We have helped one veteran discover his passion for cooking, and provided another with the skills and confidence to find employment as a football club steward. What is your dream?

What do you need right now?

Whether it’s a roof over your head, to ‘get off the sofa’, food, general support or just a chat, we can help.

We’ll then work out a plan together for your future and support you to get there.

Finding you help

We’re by your side every step of the way. We keep in contact and keep checking in. But it’s a two-way street. We’re honest with you and expect you to be straight with us.

We work with organisations such as the Citizens Advice, DWP, job centres, local supermarkets, local housing associations, The Royal British Legion, SSAFA and probation  – we work with over 300 organisations to find what you need.

Help across the UK

We operate across the UK, including Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. If you are a UK veteran living overseas we will also help.

Both veterans and the public will find a warm welcome in our Café Hubs. We’re on high street locations in:

Gosport

Hawick

Hereford

Lancaster

Scarborough

More Café Hubs and support are planned when we have secured enough funding.

Know a veteran who has fallen on hard times?

We know that many veterans may be too proud to ask for help. But they’ve earned it and we’re here to supply it. We’ve lots of experience in talking to Military and Emergency Service personnel. Please let us know about your family member, friend or neighbour. If they need help, we aim to provide it.

Contact us

Just call us on 0207 730 7545 or email enquiries@firstlighttrust.co.uk