Older veterans

Care homes/homes with support 

As people get older their housing needs may change. Some may need support to remain living as independently as possible and others may need to go into some form of sheltered accommodation or even residential care or nursing home. 

Further information: 

• Cobseo Housing Cluster  has developed a directory of housing and support services for Veterans. This includes - supported accommodation, general needs housing, floating support and day centre provision for ex-Service personnel. 

• Care Choices  provides information about finding care and support including residential care, nursing homes and care in your home. 

• Disabled facilities grants are available via your local housing authorities to fund adaptations to your home helping you to live independently and comfortably. 

Social isolation 

One of the issues for an ageing population is one of social isolation. This can be exacerbated by those who have spent a lot of time in the Armed Forces and miss the comradeship and sense of community it provides. Befriending groups and activities can be found: 

• Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Clubs 

  • We have the following clubs in South Kesteven:

  • Grantham

  • Stamford

  • Bourne

  • HMP Stocken

• RAF Association befriending service 

• RAF Benevolent Fund   

• Royal British Legion provides a community service through  Admiral Nurses  to support the carers of those living with dementia in the Armed Forces community 

• Age UK  provides befriending services 

• Royal Voluntary Service  has 35,000 volunteers help older people stay active, independent and able to continue to contribute to society

Special grants 

The Royal British Legion  provides crisis grants. This might be to cover the costs of something like: 

• a funeral 

• furniture and household appliances 

• essentials, like food and clothing 

• mobility vehicles 

• adaptations to your home for a disability 

Dementia 

• The Royal British legion supports those in the armed forces community living with dementia and their carers.  

Bereavement 

If you lose someone who has previously served in our Armed Forces, or you are ex-forces and you lose someone, then support is offered by:

• SSAFA  is committed to giving support during your bereavement 

• RAF Benevolent Fund