The programme will strengthen delivery across all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester — including Stockport — helping veterans and their families access the right help more quickly.
Under the new plans, Valour Recognised Centres will be established across the Greater Manchester city region to give veterans a single, accessible route into services covering housing, health, employment and wellbeing. These centres will meet high standards of care and share timely data with central government to help improve veteran support nationally.
In Greater Manchester, the network will follow the region’s established Live Well approach, working closely with local Armed Forces communities — including here in Stockport — to ensure support is welcoming, connected and shaped around veterans’ experiences. This model aims to reduce barriers to help, strengthen local partnerships, and make sure that no veteran feels left behind.
Councillor Dan Oliver, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Public Protection at Stockport Council, said: “We welcome the launch of the Valour programme and the network of veteran and ex Armed Forces personnel support centres. Anything that makes it easier for former service personnel to access the right help at the right time is a major step forward.
“Here in Stockport, we are proud to work with the Stockport Armed Forces Community Organisation (SAFCO) and wider Armed Forces networks, and know the value of strong partnerships between councils, charities and local services in supporting our veteran and ex Armed Forces community.
“A more connected national system will help us build on that work, strengthen local pathways and ensure veterans and their families receive seamless support across housing, health, employment and wellbeing.
“We look forward to working with partners across the Valour network to ensure that every veteran in Stockport — and across the wider region — can access the services they deserve.”
Amanda Peers Chair of the Stockport Armed Forces Community Organisation (SAFCO), said: “Many veterans tell us that navigating different services can be overwhelming. Locally, we work closely with veterans and ex-Armed Forces personnel, families, charities and public services, and we see every day how much can be achieved when organisations pull together.
"We are interested to see how the opportunities through Valour will benefit our local Armed Forces community. We continue to work with partners to deliver the best outcomes for our community and to ensure that no veteran in Stockport feels isolated or unsure where to turn."
You can find out more about this work here: First government-funded veteran centres launch