Launchpad provides accommodation and services, with the help of specialist providers, to support homeless veterans who have fallen on hard times and have found the transition from military to civilian life difficult.
For most veterans, the transition from the armed forces to civilian life is smooth but more often than not, those few who can’t resettle easily face challenges such as homelessness, poverty, mental and physical health issues, addictions, broken families and unemployment.
Founded in 2013, the charity helps veterans to overcome these challenges and to live positive and rewarding lives thereafter. Almost 90% of the veterans who arrive at Launchpad are homeless and are supported for up to two years (longer if necessary).
In the North East, Avondale House in Newcastle upon Tyne comprises 33 self-contained flats and Hollyacre House in Durham provides accommodation for up to 18 veterans. Speke House in Liverpool includes 50 flats.
Since opening, Launchpad has supported over 620 veterans across all three houses. On average, over the last five years, 41% of residents gained employment during their time at Launchpad while 61% successfully moved on to settled accommodation, either living independently, reunited with family or with the support they needed.
For more information and to find out how you could support the charity here in the North East, please visit www. veteranslaunchpad.org.uk.
Facebook Launchpad Veterans
Twitter AFV_Launchpad
Instagram Launchpad_Veterans
LinkedIn Launchpad Veterans