Last week, I hosted a veterans voice event in Dinnington alongside John Healey, Defence Secretary, and Al Carns for Labour, Veterans Minister.

This was a really important event bringing together local veterans from Dinnington & District Branch of The Royal British Legion, Wath upon Dearne RBL, Rotherham, Rawmarsh & Parkgate RBL, Conisbrough and Denaby RBL, Rotherham MCVC, SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity and Help 4 Homeless Veterans.

The discussions had were really important and covered the transition to civilian life, finding employment after serving in the armed forces, accessing support services, housing and the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card.

Rawmarsh and Conisbrough MP and Defence Secretary, John Healey, said, “What came through clearly at the event was the sense that for too long veterans haven’t had the respect they deserve, they’ve suffered a post code lottery of services, and they haven’t had a government that takes what they need seriously.”

“This Government will stand side-by-side with veterans and their families. The conversations we’ve had continue to help us to get a good idea of what is happening on the ground.”

“Veterans and organisations that support them are the best advisors you can have when it comes to making the changes that are needed for the future.”

Veterans Minister Al Carns added, “‘It was a pleasure to be with John Healey and local MP Jake Richards to meet such an amazing group of Veterans. With over 600 years of military experience in the room, it was an impressive crowd and so valuable to get the issues facing Veterans first hand.”

“Huge thanks to Jake for pulling this together and all those that attended. Thank you for your service!”

Thank you to everyone who came to Dinnington for the event.