Vale of Glamorgan Council Launches Veteran Advice Service
The Vale of Glamorgan Council has launched a new service offering free impartial information, advice and support to members of the Armed Forces within the County
Those who are serving or have served can access guidance and assistance from a specially designated officer on matters such as housing, employment, finances, benefits, social care and more.
The Veteran Advice Service also helps to identify which of the many organisations supporting the Armed Forces community can offer the right assistance in each individual case.
Cllr Janice Charles, Vale of Glamorgan Council Armed Forces Champion, said: “Armed Forces veterans put everything on the line to help protect their communities and it’s important we do all we can to help them in any way possible.
“This dedicated service offers former military personnel or those still serving assistance across a range of areas, whether they relate to finance, health or any number of other matters.
“I’m proud to be the Vale’s Armed Forces Champion and represent some of the most valuable people within our community.
“Adjusting back to civilian life after service can be difficult and the aim of this initiative is to make that process as simple as possible.”
Recently, the Council’s Armed Forces Advisor Abigail Warburton helped rehome one veteran who had been living in his car.
He was walked through the process of applying for Council housing and subsequently offered a home.
That was then furnished with a bed, sofa, dining table and chairs, stereo and more by the family of another veteran, Thomas Brinley Evans, who had recently passed away.
Further items, including a washing machine and cleaning products, were donated by Caroline and Helena Morgan-Phillips of Poppylicious. Jan a coordinator of Friends of Rhondda Rotary Community
Shop donated furniture and some crockery, while Richard Jones Carpets of Barry generously offered free carpet after learning of the veteran’s plight. The Royal British Legion have also offered support and ongoing contact through their community support project.
The Veteran said: “I would like to say a special thank you to Abi Warburton. This lady has been outstanding and without her support and kindness I would still be living in my car. The warm fuzzy feeling that I had just knowing that she was behind the scenes fighting my corner was great. She was ringing me at least once a week even if there was no good news, which was very reassuring. The Armed Forces community need more Abi Warburtons in my opinion as the empathy and passion that she has is second to none.”
The Veteran Advice Service can be contacted from Monday to Friday between 8.30 am and 5.00pm by calling 07725 704655 or emailing veteranService@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk
Drop-in sessions are also held at local libraries in Barry, Penarth, Llantwit Major, Cowbridge, Sully, Wenvoe, St Athan, Rhoose and Dinas Powys.