Dudley MP Sonia Kumar welcomes £50 Million VALOUR Support Network to Transform Veterans’ Services

Sonia Kumar MP for Dudley and Al Carns, Veterans Minister at the Black Country Living Museum with volunteers and veterans from across Dudley.

Thousands of veterans in Dudley are set to benefit from a major new UK-wide support network, as the Government launches VALOUR-a landmark initiative backed by £50 million to ensure veterans receive the care and opportunities they deserve.

VALOUR will establish a dedicated network of support centres and deploy Regional Field Officers in every local authority, including Dudley. These officers will work closely with local charities, service providers, and Dudley Council to connect veterans with vital services in housing, employment, health, and welfare.

The initiative is designed to end the “postcode patchwork” of existing support and deliver truly joined-up, data-driven care for all who have served.

Dudley MP, Sonia Kumar said,

“Our veterans have given so much to our country, and it’s only right that we give back by providing the support they need to thrive in civilian life. VALOUR is a game-changer for Dudley, bringing together the best of our local services and ensuring no veteran is left behind.

Defence Secretary, John Healey MP said,

“The Armed Forces set most people up for success in life, but when veterans need help, then support is too often a postcode patchwork.

“Our plan to develop a UK-wide veterans support service will work with enterprising health, employment and housing charities, and it is backed by one of the largest-ever Government funding commitments to veterans.”1

Dudley already offers a range of services for veterans, including the Armed Forces Breakfast Club and the Stepway 7-Step Civilian Skills Program, but VALOUR will build on these foundations, ensuring every veteran in Dudley can access tailored, evidence-led support-regardless of their background or circumstances. 2 3

Veterans Minister, Al Carns MP added,

“This new investment will ensure that every veteran, regardless of where they live, can access joined-up support services in the way they need it.”1

The first VALOUR support centres will be operational next year, with veterans in Dudley invited to help shape the service through research, focus groups, and feedback sessions. VALOUR’s data-driven approach will ensure resources are directed where they are most needed, helping Dudley’s veterans unlock their full potential and thrive in civilian life.