Salisbury charity Alabaré is celebrating after Help for Heroes agreed funds of £75,000 to help Armed Forces veterans as they make their tough transition to civilian life.  

The Help for Heroes grant funding will be used to provide accommodation, support and practical help in Alabaré's supported homes as veterans progress to independent living.

Chief Executive of Alabaré Andrew Lord says:  

"It is a great honour to be working with Help for Heroes which has done so very much to highlight the on going needs of veterans.  Alabaré is passionate that those who have served their country are given the right support if they find themselves facing adversity and homelessness in civilian life.

"Timely and appropriate help prevents a further decline in circumstances that can lead to homelessness, deteriorating mental and physical health, unemployment, poverty, addiction problems and the breakdown of relationships."

Bryn Parry, CEO and Co-Founder of Help for Heroes says:  

"We are passionate about getting the best for the men and women of our Armed Forces and we are proud to work with other service charities to make sure this happens.  Alabaré is a fantastic organisation and we can't wait to see the grant making a difference to the lives of our veterans."

The Help for Heroes fund will be used to help up to 15 veterans over the next two years. Applicants must be wounded, injured or sick and have served in recent conflicts. When accepted into a home, a detailed plan is drawn up showing what the veteran hopes to achieve and it is this care which is funded by Help for Heroes.

Most veterans live in homes with high to medium support although some need intensive care, moving to a low level support home  when they are ready before progressing to independent accommodation.

Presenting issues can include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other mental ill health, physical problems, addiction and debt issues.  Support staff signpost to other welfare agencies and help veterans identify new careers, training and other opportunities. A befriending service is available using volunteers who have been specifically trained and matched.

Alabaré's Hampshire Home for Veterans in Fareham which is supported by the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC), The Girdlers' Charity and Seafarers UK will be officially opened on Friday 14th September.  Alabaré opened its first home for veterans in Plymouth in 2009 and now has others in Bristol, Salisbury and Weymouth.  A major expansion has been announced creating a further 200 beds in England and Wales by 2015.  The next home is planned to open in Gloucester in 2013.