A grant of £130,000 from Greenwich Hospital will help homeless veterans’ housing charity Launchpad continue its vital support for unemployed former Royal Navy and Royal Marines facing a housing crisis.
Since its establishment in 2013, Launchpad has assisted over 745 homeless veterans, providing housing and wraparound, person-centred support to former personnel often at critical times in their transition from military life. The Charity supports veterans across the North West and North East of England with housing accommodation based in Durham, Newcastle and Liverpool.
Launchpad understands the detrimental effects that a lack of stable housing can have on individuals during vulnerable periods in their lives. The team works to reduce homelessness, unemployment, and social deprivation among veterans by offering housing and ongoing support. Once veterans are housed, they receive help with training, employment opportunities, and securing permanent housing.
Launchpad helps veterans stabilise their lives and successfully transition from military to civilian life through its ongoing partnerships with specialist providers. In the last five years, 50% of veterans have gained employment during their time with the Charity, and 61% have successfully moved on to live in safe and secure housing elsewhere.
Veterans like Nicholas, photographed, who served in the Royal Navy from 1985 to 1999, rising to Leading Weapons Engineer and took part in conflicts during the First Gulf War and Bosnia. Diagnosed with glaucoma and PTSD while serving, his vision deteriorated in civilian life, leading to job loss as a paramedic, homelessness, and mental health struggles. After contacting OP COURAGE, he was referred to Op FORTITUDE and found stability at Speke House in August 2024. Nic now aims to secure over-55s housing with Anchor Housing, prioritising transport links to maintain his support network.
Supporting housing initiatives for former Royal Navy and Royal Marines personnel aligns with Greenwich Hospital’s core funding principles. Our previous support for Launchpad has strengthened aid for homeless Royal Navy veterans, ensuring critical assistance when it’s needed most.
Deirdre Mill, Director of Greenwich Hospital, said:
“The team at Launchpad understand that secure and sustainable housing is often the first step in helping former RN personnel transition to civilian life. Their long-term, proven approach is making a real difference and is effective. We want to support Launchpad to help meet the growing demand for safe and affordable housing for veterans in need.”
Jill Murray, Chief Executive, Launchpad, said:
“We are grateful to Greenwich Hospital for awarding Launchpad this grant. Our passion and determination drive us to achieve positive outcomes on behalf of the veterans we support. This funding award further strengthens our ability to operate on a sustainable footing, allowing us to keep focused on their long-term success and wellbeing. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Greenwich Hospital.”
To learn more about the work of Launchpad, visit: Homepage – Launchpad
