Thousands of veterans across Kent are now able to access improved support services following the opening of a new dedicated centre in Aylesford on 2 July. This facility marks the inaugural launch of a VALOUR-recognised hub, part of a significant new UK-wide programme designed to streamline and enhance assistance for former military personnel.
VALOUR, a government initiative backed by £50 million in funding from the Defence Investment Plan, aims to provide easier access to vital local services covering health, housing, employment, and general welfare. The Aylesford centre, operated by the Royal British Veterans Enterprises (RBVE), is one of 14 organisations nationwide that have already received a share of over £13 million in initial government funding. This comprehensive support system will also offer online access via a new GOV.UK website and a dedicated helpline service for veterans and their families.
The official opening was attended by the Minister for Veterans and People, Calvin Bailey MBE MP, who is a veteran himself. He highlighted that VALOUR is designed to remove the complexities veterans often face when seeking support after leaving the Armed Forces. The Minister emphasised the government's commitment to standing by those who have served, ensuring a clear, local point of contact for assistance across various needs.
Lisa Farmer OBE, CEO of Royal British Veterans Enterprises, underscored the importance of the new centre and the VALOUR programme. She stated that no veteran should have to navigate support systems alone and welcomed VALOUR's approach to connecting veterans and their families with the most suitable organisations. RBVE, with over a century of experience supporting veterans and people with disabilities, will leverage its role within the VALOUR network to reach ex-service personnel across the South East, including in some of the region's most disadvantaged communities.
The VALOUR system is overseen by a headquarters within the Office for Veterans’ Affairs (OVA) in the Ministry of Defence. It is structured to provide national oversight, regional coordination, and local delivery, with VALOUR field officers working to foster collaboration among local partners, councils, charities, and public services. A second round of funding from the £50 million total is expected to be allocated in the coming months, with more VALOUR-recognised centres anticipated to join the network by the end of 2026, further expanding the reach of these crucial services across the country.