OPS Wind/Training, based in Liverpool, is the first company to back a new campaign by sponsoring a veterans’ flat at Launchpad’s Speke House.
The company which delivers safety training for onshore/offshore wind farms, rope access and crane training, has donated £1,000 to the charity which will contribute towards any refurbishment costs and upkeep of one of 50 flats.
OPS Wind/Training is the first company to sign up to the new fundraising campaign and staff from the firm visited the house last week to unveil a plaque which boasts their name in recognition of their contribution to supporting veterans.
They enjoyed a tour of the house, met staff and residents and were presented with an engraved slate plaque to display within their head office.
OPS Training is a gold award holder of the Armed Forces Covenant, demonstrating its commitment and support to the UK Armed Forces’ community.
Sam Jackson, Manager of Launchpad’s Speke House, said:
“We are very grateful to OPS Wind/Training for backing this campaign. The average cost to turn around a void flat for a new resident to move in is £2,000. This includes the costs for any removals and disposal of old furniture and items, re-decorating, fixing electrics and lighting and ensuring all relevant safety checks and certificates are re-issued.
“This is a cost to the charity so we’ve launched this campaign to generate additional funds, and the response has been amazing. We have 50 flats/bedsits here at Speke House so if we can generate enough funding to cover these miscellaneous costs, it means money can be allocated to other areas that enable us to continue to provide the support our residents need.
“Launching fundraising initiatives like sponsoring a veterans flat is a great way to engage with our corporate partners and they can see first-hand the impact their donation will have.”
Gary Paterson, Training Center Manager from OPS Training, said:
“As a military veteran myself, I am aware that not everything goes to plan once leaving the armed forces. Coming from an environment where your daily routine, accommodation, bills are organised for you, to suddenly finding yourself in need of employment and accommodation and maybe your family, paying utility bills, the list goes on and this can lead to tremendous pressure that can possibly lead to complications down the line.
“Having a charity like Launchpad plays an essential role in supporting Armed Forces Veterans, addressing their unique challenges and ensuring they receive the care and assistance they deserve after their service.
“Launchpad provides a crucial safety net for veterans, who often face a range of difficulties as they transition to civilian life by addressing healthcare needs, providing financial and employment assistance and housing. The work of Launchpad not only aids veterans but also strengthens communities by working with other Armed Forces Covenant members and that’s why OPS Wind/Training is excited to be supporting this charity.”
Last year, Launchpad’s Speke House provided accommodation and support to 81 veterans. On average, over the last five years, 56% of veterans supported by Speke House have successfully moved on and 28% left in paid employment.
Speke House comprises 50 self-contained, one-bedroom flats and bedsits for former serving personnel and their partners. Launchpad has three houses in the North of England in Liverpool, Newcastle and Durham providing accommodation for 100 homeless veterans – accepting veterans from all over the UK.
