A Safe Place to Rebuild: Supporting Homeless Veterans in Kent
For a veteran facing homelessness or crisis, having somewhere safe and secure to stay can be the first step towards rebuilding their life.
The Kent Reliance Community Foundation has awarded £64,750 to the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE) to refurbish their Emergency Accommodation in Aylesford, helping ensure that it continues to provide veterans with a safe, comfortable and supportive place to recover and move forward.
Founded in 1919, RBVE supports veterans and people with disabilities through housing, employment and tailored care.
Among its services is a homeless hostel, a 28-bed emergency accommodation facility for veterans experiencing crises including homelessness, addiction and mental health challenges.
During the past year, the charity has supported 45 homeless veterans through a unique model of holistic care pathway incorporating mental health services, substance misuse support, housing guidance, employment training and moving on accommodation.
Veterans can also access opportunities through RBVE's on-site social enterprise factory, helping them rebuild confidence and independence.
Our grant will fund essential improvements to emergency accommodation, including roof repairs and new Velux windows, a new bathroom, painting and decorating, new furniture and updating bedrooms.
The work will create a safer, more comfortable and energy-efficient environment and is expected to benefit at least 60 people directly over the following year.
Veterans themselves will also have opportunities to volunteer as part of the refurbishment project.
Jonathan Couch, Head of Grants, said: "When someone is facing a crisis, the environment around them matters. A safe, warm and dignified place to live can provide the stability from which everything else – health, confidence, employment and independence – can begin to improve. We're proud that this grant will help ensure RBVE continues to provide that foundation for veterans when they need it most."
The refurbishment is a tangible investment in a facility that will continue supporting veterans beyond the immediate funding period, creating a lasting asset for the community.
For more information about the Royal British Veterans Enterprise and its work, visit Home - Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE).
Lisa Farmer OBE, CEO at RBVE said: “No veteran should ever have to sleep on the streets. For people with complex needs, finding the right support can be the first step towards rebuilding their lives.
RBVE is providing the specialist care and support veterans need, while showing that a pathway back to independence and paid employment is possible, with real job opportunities just a short walk from our emergency accommodation.
Because employment can be the key to breaking the cycle of homelessness, restoring confidence and creating a more secure future.
We are incredibly grateful to the Kent Reliance Community Foundation for supporting this vital work and helping us give veterans the opportunity to move forward.”