VALOUR
Introduction
VALOUR is a new national programme that makes it easier for veterans and their families across the UK to access the care and support they deserve.
It connects people with local and national organisations that can provide help with:
- health
- housing
- employment
- finances
- well-being
- other challenges affecting day-to-day life
Overview
Connected Forces Cymru is a VALOUR-recognised hub for South and West Wales. Funded by the Ministry of Defence through the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, it brings together a network of organisations to support:
- veterans
- serving personnel
- Armed Forces families
The network includes:
The initial three-year programme runs from 2026 to 2029 and is expected to support around 13,500 members of the Armed Forces community across South and West Wales.
Through the network, people can access support with:
- health
- housing
- employment
- well-being
Access to support
People often need support from more than one organisation.
Connected Forces Cymru will help people find the support they need in one place.
Support will include:
- local hubs open up to six days a week
- referrals to health, housing, employment and welfare services
- support for people who cannot attend in person
- help from any partner organisation, whichever one people contact first
The network will use a "no wrong door" approach. This means people can start with any partner organisation and still get the support they need.
Bringing services together
Veterans, serving personnel and Armed Forces families can access help through a collaboration of of local organisations across South and West Wales.
Together, the organisations provide:
- safe and welcoming spaces
- social activities and community connections
- practical help with everyday challenges
- services tailored to individual needs
The collaboration aims to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing and make it easier for people to access the help available to them.
Bulldogs Boxing & Community Activities (Bulldogs BCA) leads the VALOUR-accredited Connected Forces Cymru hub. It coordinates access to services for veterans, service leavers and Armed Forces families across South and West Wales.
Ceri Stilwell, Chief Executive Officer of Bulldogs Boxing & Community Activities, said:
"Connected Forces Cymru will make it easier for people to access the help available to them. This funding allows local organisations to work together through a single network, helping veterans, service leavers and their families find the right support more quickly."
Setting up local hubs
The partners will set up community hubs across South Wales.
Information about locations, services and how to get support will be shared as the programme develops.