A charity dedicated to supporting homeless veterans in South Yorkshire has announced the opening of its inaugural residential property. Help 4 Homeless Veterans acquired the house, named Wood House in honour of its founder Tom Wood, in Rotherham in February. This new facility is set to provide vital short-term emergency housing for up to four ex-service personnel experiencing homelessness.
The charity, which has assisted over 1,000 former military personnel with housing problems since its inception in 2010, previously relied on hotel accommodation, an approach described as expensive by its chief executive officer, Steve Bentham-Bates. The purchase of their own property, costing £147,000, marks a significant step towards a more cost-effective and sustainable solution for supporting veterans in crisis. The first residents are expected to be welcomed from 12th June.
The acquisition of Wood House was partly financed through a 'Buy a Brick' fundraising campaign, with donors' names set to be displayed in a roll of honour within the property. Further support came from Efficiency North, a not-for-profit group that mobilised businesses and tradespeople to carry out approximately £30,000 worth of essential repairs and refurbishments. Liz Butcher from Efficiency North highlighted the strong connection between the construction industry and the armed forces, noting many ex-service personnel enter the sector and were keen to assist.
The accommodation at the four-bedroom property on Station Road is designed to be a temporary measure, offering veterans a maximum stay of four weeks. During this period, the charity aims to help individuals 'get back on their feet' and transition into more permanent housing. Mr Bentham-Bates, a 70-year-old RAF veteran, emphasised that the house serves as a crucial 'stepping stone', providing a safe space for veterans who often find themselves homeless due to relationship breakdowns and a lack of alternative support networks.
Mr Bentham-Bates underscored the often 'fragile' state of veterans, many of whom have endured traumatic experiences in conflict zones, witnessing severe injuries or the loss of comrades. He recounted an instance of helping a veteran who had been sleeping in the woods, highlighting the profound impact a hot shower and a safe bed can have. The charity prides itself on its streamlined operations, avoiding extensive bureaucracy, and was recognised with a Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2020.