Veterans’ charity Launchpad is looking to extend its network of connections across the North East region thanks to the unique benefits of being a member of the North East England Chamber of Commerce (NEECC).
The charity joined thousands of other organisations by becoming a member of the Chamber and is looking forward to the start of the gradual return to face-to-face events when possible, and has benefited from the Chamber’s extensive virtual events programme.
The Chamber was established to bring organisations together as a collective force and to have a stronger voice. It is the North East’s largest member organisation representing 3,000 businesses from SME’s to large multi-nationals.
Launchpad’s Avondale House based in Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne is the city’s largest veterans’ accommodation provider, dedicated to provide accommodation and support, with the help of specialist providers, to 33 residents including their partners.
Avondale House has supported over 220 veterans since it opened in 2013, providing support to residents to help them successfully transition to civilian life and live independently.
Phil Thompson, Manager of Avondale House said:
“Becoming a member of the Chamber is important for a charity like ours to help raise awareness of supporting our veterans but also to collaborate with other organisations who may be able to support the work we do.
“We joined just before Covid-19 hit so access to events have been restricted but, now that we are coming out of the pandemic, we’re looking forward to attending events and networking with other like-minded businesses to grow our network and share knowledge and influence. This is a great opportunity for Launchpad and to support our growth strategy across the region.”
Lynsey Fairless, Relationship Manager Small Business at the Chamber, said:
“We are delighted to have Launchpad in our membership. In the Chamber we pride ourselves in our ability to connect businesses for their mutual benefit and also for the benefit of the whole North East business community.”
The charity, which also has a house in Liverpool providing accommodation for up to 48 residents, welcomed its 500th resident in March since it was founded. 71% of residents successfully move on to settled accommodation and 42% (pre-pandemic figure) leave in paid employment.
