The Veterans’ Places, Pathways & People
The VPPP programme will award 10 grants to portfolios of projects, which work regionally to develop support for veterans.
VPPP London
Better Together: London Veterans’ Partnership
Back to VPPP Region by Region
Portfolio lead Poppy Factory
VPPP London – Location, location, location – London has been the beating heart of opportunity for millions in its history-steeped streets and suburbs, so much so that navigating all that is on offer can, for lots of us, be a bit bewildering and a little overwhelming. The Poppy Factory, known for its employment support for veterans, understands that the streets, if not paved with gold, do offer a lot of opportunities.
Member Organisations of VPPP London
- CDARS
- Company of Makers
- Defence Medical Welfare Service
- Fighting Chance
- Fighting with Pride
- First Light Trust
- Positive Adventure
- Ripple Pond
- Stoll
A consultation event, held in the summer of 2021, attracted around 40 London-specific organisations. They exchanged ideas, listened to experiences and thought about best practice in breaking down preconceptions. The group considered how to ensure that veterans are fully aware of – and have access to – the different services, activities and opportunities on offer in London. Armed with the collective information needed, a successful bid of £799,062 was awarded to the London Veterans Partnership from the VPPP programme. The result of the dialogue has shaped a project designed to complement services, playing to the strengths of partner organisations. These range from friendly spaces and activities to one-to-one support, as needed, open to all in London’s diverse veteran community. The mission statement of the London Veterans Partnership captures the motivation behind the project, ‘Seeking to build a strong, supportive and inclusive network with London’s ex-Forces community at its centre, in doing so helping veterans gain access to services, overcome barriers and explore new opportunities to support positive mental health and reduce social isolation.’
An eye-catching logo, dedicated web page and regular email newsletter have been developed to invite veterans and their families to ‘take a look’ at what is available. The consultation also confirmed that an easy entry point to the suite of services, with intelligent behind the scenes cross-referral, is the best way to remove hurdles for veterans and their families and prevent them getting lost in the system.
The aim is to minimise the need for veterans to repeat their story and build veteran-focused knowledge amongst delivery partners, enabling support staff to understand demand for services, and to deploy them in the best way possible.
The project lead said, ‘We are delighted to be leading the London Veterans Partnership. Through an exciting and varied network of partners, all committed to the project’s mission, we will reach veterans throughout London and provide a lasting legacy of support and collaboration.’