MP hails ‘stand-out’ vets service
THE Shadow Defence Secretary has praised the VIC (Veterans in Communities) Centre in Haslingden as a “stand-out support service for veterans and a model for other areas across the country”.
John Healey visited the centre on April 28, meeting staff, touring the centre and talking with veterans.
The veterans – who are from the Army, Navy and RAF – shared their experiences of problems coping with civilian life after the Forces and about the ‘life-saving and life-changing’ support the Centre has offered.
They told Mr Healey that VIC is a vital ‘safe-zone’ for those seeking support and spoke with pride about the way many ex-Forces personnel help run activities and the centre.
The Veterans in Communities charity supports ex-Forces personnel across East Lancashire while the centre runs activities for veterans across the region, alongside civil groups, including arts and craft groups, choir and walking trips.
Mr Healey, who was also in Rossendale to campaign with Labour council candidates ahead of polling day on Thursday, May 5, said: “It was a real privilege and inspiration to visit VIC.
“This is a stand-out support service for veterans and a model for other areas across the country.”
CEO of VIC Amanda Walton: “Staff and volunteers at Veterans in Communities were delighted to welcome John Healey and his colleagues to our centre on Thursday.
“It is important that parliament and local councillors understand the need for services such as ours and witness first-hand what it looks like at ground level for a veteran in need.”