Veterans’ Ministers from around the globe visit Stoll
Stoll has welcomed an international delegation including Veterans’ Ministers from around the world to meet Veterans in London. Ministers from the British Government, Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand discussed the bespoke housing and employment support that helps ex-Servicemen and women lead independent lives.
The delegation toured Stoll’s main housing scheme which is home to 150 Veterans, many of whom have experienced mental illness and physical injuries as a result of their Service. The Ministers met Stoll residents and heard about the importance of having a stable home and access to employment. Ministers also heard about the work of The Poppy Factory, a charity Stoll works closely with who help ex-Service men and women with disabilities into meaningful and sustained employment.
Stoll Chief Executive, Ed Tytherleigh, said: “I am delighted to welcome Ministers to Stoll and to show them the homes and support we offer. By providing social housing and support to Veterans in the greatest need, people can make an effective transition from the Armed Forces into civilian life. By intervening early, we can help prevent unnecessary homelessness and work with our partners to get people back into training and paid work.”
Army Veteran Shaun Johnson lives in a Stoll property and is employed by The Poppy Factory. After meeting the Ministers he said: “I struggled to integrate after leaving military service. Stoll gave me a home and a new lease of life, and with their support, I have excelled. Today I help fellow Veterans’ across the UK in my job as Employment Coordinator at The Poppy Factory.”
The Poppy Factory works with businesses across the country to provide bespoke opportunities and ongoing employment support for hundreds of disabled Veterans of all ages and from all Services, helping to restore their financial independence through sustainable and rewarding work. Chief Executive, Deirdre Mills, said: “We know that it can be very difficult for Veterans with a physical or mental health condition to find fulfilling work. Our employability consultants work closely with individuals to find the best jobs for these Veterans and to provide them with the support that they need.”
Stoll’s Outreach team provides tailored support to meet the individual needs of Veterans. In the last year, 44 Veterans were found appropriate accommodation, 36 were supported into employment and 85 people received mental health advice and support.
The international delegation was in London for an International Ministerial Conference on Veterans’ Issues. The conference was hosted by Minister for Defence People and veterans, the Rt. Hon Tobias Ellwood MP, who served in the Royal Green Jackets.