The Minister for Veterans and People, Al Carns MP, visited Telford on Friday 25 October to meet with local veterans and discuss the issues facing the ex-service community.
The visit is part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to increase support veterans and ensure they receive the services and benefits they deserve.
With veterans comprising 10% of households in Telford, the Minister was invited to visit a Veterans Café in Dawley to see the wide range of local support offered under the Armed Forces Covenant. During the visit, the Minister also met with key partners, including Telford Mind and Madeley Court Practice.
Veterans shared their experiences transitioning to civilian life, discussions on access to healthcare, housing support, mental health services, and employment opportunities for former service members.
Speaking after the visit the Minister said: “It was an honour to meet with the veterans here in Telford today. Our veterans have made tremendous sacrifices for our country, and it is our duty to ensure they have the support they need to lead fulfilling lives after their service. Listening to their concerns and experiences helps us better understand how we can improve services and address their needs.”
The Minister also highlighted the importance of local initiatives, noting that Telford’s veterans’ community is an example of how grassroots support can play a key role in assisting those who have served.
Shaun Davies MP accompanied the Minister during the visit and emphasised the significance of engaging directly with veterans in order to make real change happen.
Shaun said: “With many friends and family in the armed forces, I know there’s more work to be done. It was an honour to welcome the Minister to Telford today; our veterans have given so much, and we must ensure they receive the support they deserve. This visit was both a step toward tackling their challenges and a chance to celebrate the positive work happening in our community, which we hope can serve as a model for enhancing veteran services and partnering with local organisations to ensure no veteran is left behind.”
Clive Elliott, Chair of Trustees at Telford Mind, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Al Carns to our Veterans’ Café to showcase the work we do with Telford & Wrekin Council to support local veterans. He met with veterans from a variety of age groups and was able to hear first-hand how the work we do supports them. Life can be challenging for those leaving military service and we are determined to offer the best support we can for those who put themselves in harm’s way on our behalf.”
Councillor Lee Carter, Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council said: “With over 16,000 people with an armed forces connection living in Telford and Wrekin, we’re a borough with a proud military history, so we’re proud to support and thank them for their service, through our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant.
“I’d like to thank the Minister for Veterans for taking time out of his busy schedule to visit our Veterans’ Café here in Telford and find out more about the ways we’re supporting those who’ve given so much for our country, from help with housing and health, to activity sessions, leisure discounts and Veterans Cafes like this one.”
In the last 3 months, the Government has reinforced its support for the Armed Forces community by recognising the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card as a valid form of Voter ID in upcoming elections. This initiative is part of a broader review to assess the overall impact of the Voter ID policy on citizens.
In addition, the Government is also taking steps to improve access to social housing for veterans, making it easier for those who have served to secure stable, affordable homes. This commitment highlights a strong focus on advocating for the well-being of our armed forces personnel and veterans.
Locally in Telford Shaun Davies MP is asking for local Veterans to get in touch, share their experiences and make suggestions about how the lives of Veterans can be improved via this survey: https://forms.gle/WtBagtJds7a49TgGA
