Royal British Legion Industries
Royal British Legion Industries were awarded a grant for 73,750 under the Refurbishment Grant Programme in December 2023. The projects aim was to focus on family homes on London Road East as part of a wider programme of repairs and renovations, to keep them habitable by making the roof watertight. Additionally, the funding will improve accessibility in one property by replacing the bath with a shower, installing handrails and ramps, adding suitable flooring and an outside storage space for mobility vehicles.
The refurbishments would extend the usable life of the accommodation. The single property renovation will create an accessible home suitable for people with mobility adaptation needs.
The planned works were developed with participants of the existing welfare support project, which focuses on enabling better relationships, health and mobility and employment opportunities. The project works with street homeless Veterans, older Veterans, and Veterans who are moving due to a health crisis. This refurbishment work will maintain twelve properties to support transitions into more positive life chances.
Enhancing Residential Living
Capital Grants Manager, Sian Butler and Communications Officer, Gemma Calvert had the opportunity to see the improvements the grant has made to the homes.
The team were able to meet veteran residents and their families and told us how the improvements have made a positive impact.
A resident mentioned that installing a waterproof roof has resolved the family’s damp issues. The continuous dripping from the old fascia during and after heavy rain has also ceased since the upgrade.
Another resident, while tending to his garden, thanked the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust for the improved condition of the homes. He noted that the enhancements have made the houses on the street look tidier and that the new soffits will boost energy efficiency.
Extensive Support Provided
The village, which has been active seen 1919, has been providing housing and welfare support to over three hundred members of the Armed Forces Community.
It offers a unique welfare model with a dedicated team providing structured, holistic support tailored to the individual needs of Veterans and their families. This support includes housing, addressing drug and alcohol dependency, financial issues, and relationship breakdowns, as well as offering specialist nursing care homes for dementia support.
With a variety of housing options including small apartments, two- and three-bedroom family homes, and purpose-built Move-On accommodations, Veterans can move within the Village as their situation stabilises. They also can move away from the Village when they are ready to pursue new opportunities or return to their hometown.
During the tour, the team were taken to see the RBLI social enterprise factory.
The insightful visit showcased the factory’s production of road and rail signs, wooden products, and fulfilment services. Remarkably, most of the workforce consists of individuals who are either disabled, military Veterans, or both.
The charity supports those in need by offering employment and upskilling opportunities to people from the Armed Forces community with disabilities and to those facing employment challenges and barriers in traditional workplaces.
The team had the pleasure of meeting one of the Veteran residents who reside in the village who spoke about her story and how RBLI have been instrumental to her recovery after service life.
A lifeline of support
Retired Sergeant, Vicky, who was attached to the Royal Army Medical Corp (RAMC) as a combat medic for 19 years served on the front line during several conflicts, including Iraq and Afghanistan.
Due to a diagnosis of port traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Vicky, was compelled to leave military service and reluctantly end her career in 2019.
Reflecting on her experience, Vicky explained “I felt lost. After being cared for and provided for in Service, I suddenly had to navigate a completely new life, all while grappling with PTSD.”
“I felt supported, surrounded by people who understood me, who shared similar experiences.”
During this challenging period, Vicky was residing with her partner and their family when she noticed a local organisation marked with a poppy symbol, signifying its military connections. Mustering her courage, she entered and asked for help.
“A few weeks later, RBLI offered me a place to stay – a lifeline,” Vicky recounted. “I felt supported, surrounded by people who understood me, who shared similar experiences.”
Despite ongoing recovery and difficult days, Vicky has found strength in organising a weekly coffee morning for the community.
“Meeting others who also need support helps us all,” she shared. “We can lean on each other… during tough times.”
The support from RBLI has been invaluable in helping Vicky and her family move forward. “I’m immensely grateful for the support I’ve received” she concluded.