Older veterans
The Armed Forces Covenant is a lifelong commitment. It doesn’t matter how long ago you served or for how long, the Covenant can still support you.
Care homes/homes with support
As people get older their housing needs may change. Some may need support to remain living as independently as possible and others may need to go into some form of sheltered accommodation or even residential care or nursing home.
Further information:
- Cobseo Housing Cluster has developed a directory of housing and support services for Veterans. This includes – supported accommodation, general needs housing, floating support and day centre provision for ex-Service personnel.
- Care Choices provides information about finding care and support including residential care, nursing homes and care in your home.
Also, see – Disabled facilities grants. These are available via your local housing authorities to fund adaptations to your home helping you to live independently and comfortably.
Social isolation
One of the issues for an ageing population is one of social isolation. This can be exacerbated by those who have spent a lot of time in the Armed Forces and miss the comradeship and sense of community it provides.
Befriending groups and activities can be found:
- The Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Clubs
- The RAF Association befriending service
- The Royal British Legion provides a community service through Admiral Nurses to support the carers of those living with dementia in the Armed Forces community
- Age UK provide befriending services
- Royal Voluntary Service have 35,000 volunteers help older people stay active, independent and able to continue to contribute to society.
Special grants
The Royal British Legion provides crisis grants. This might be to cover the costs of something like:
- a funeral
- furniture and household appliances
- essentials, like food and clothing
- mobility vehicles
- adaptations to your home for a disability
Bereavement
If you lose someone who has previously served in our Armed Forces, or you are ex-forces and you lose someone, then SSAFA is committed to giving support during your bereavement.