Veterans
Information and support for veterans living in Oxfordshire.
On this page
Support for veterans
A veteran is someone who has served in the armed forces for a day or more but is no longer serving.
We understand the importance of supporting those who have sacrificed so much in the line of duty for our country. We will always try to ensure that veterans are supported in their adjustment to civilian life and, in some cases, to recover physically or mentally from their experiences serving their country.
Information to provide support and advice to armed forces veterans on several different issues they may face.
Local Support in Oxfordshire
Oxfordshire Veterans Group
Oxfordshire Veterans Group - Supporting veterans, reservists and their families.
email: oxfordshireveterans@gmail.com
Providing comprehensive welfare support and community engagement for veterans in Oxfordshire with a focus on health, benefits, and well-being.
Veterans Coffee Morning
3rd Friday of the month @ Barton Neighborhood Centre, Underhill Circus, Barton, OX3 9LS
Veterans Brunch
1st Saturday of the month @ Abingdon British Legion Club, 25 Spring Road, Abingdon, OX14 1A
Witney (West Oxfordshire) Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club
Witney (West Oxfordshire) Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club is a dedicated and welcoming community where military veterans come together to share their experiences, build lasting connections, and savour delectable food.ub is committed to creating a safe, inclusive space for veterans of all ages, backgrounds, and branches of the armed forces.
First Saturday of the month, from 10am at The White Hart, Burford Road, Minster Lovell, OX29 0RA
Banbury Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club
Banbury Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club - Join us in the Banbury AFVBC (Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club) for a warm and inviting atmosphere where the camaraderie of service endures. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or recently retired, our club offers a place where you can connect with like-minded individuals who appreciate your service. Experience the bond of military fellowship while enjoying a hearty breakfast. Be a part of Banbury AFVBC (Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club), where we provide you with a sense of belonging.
First Saturday of the month, from 0930 at The Exchange, 49-50 High Street, Banbury, OX16 5LA
Didcot Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club
Didcot Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club - The Didcot Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club (AFVBC) is more than just a gathering; it's a lifeline for some veterans. When you step into an AFVBC club, you become part of a nationwide tradition of Veterans Breakfast Clubs. Our Didcot AFVBC is a place where veterans come together, forging bonds that last a lifetime, we're proud to be a beacon of support and camaraderie, driven by the core principle of "By Veterans For Veterans."
First Sunday of the month, from 9am at Berro Lounge, Orchard Shopping Centre, 44 Orchard Street, Didcot, OX11 7LG
Heyford and Bicester Veterans
At Heyford Park Community Centre, Brice Road, Upper Heyford, OX25 5TF
First Friday of the month, 11am – 2pm0
Email: heyfordandbicesterveterans@gmail.com
Royal British Legion Branches in Oxfordshire
National Veteran Support Service
VALOUR
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.
Office for Veterans' Affairs
Office for Veterans' Affairs - The Office for Veterans’ Affairs (OVA) is a part of the Ministry of Defence.
Leading on the government’s policy on veterans, we work with devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, local government, charities and businesses to help veterans when they need it, enabling them to continue to make brilliant contributions to society after leaving the armed forces.
Veterans UK
Veterans UK - We provide free support for veterans and their families, including a helpline, Veterans Services, Defence Transition Services and injury/bereavement compensation scheme payments.
Veterans UK is part of the Ministry of Defence.
Veterans ID Card information
Veterans ID Card information - The HM Armed Forces Veteran Card, also known as a Veterans ID card, is being issued to allow ex-service personnel to easily verify their service and access support services where needed.
It will now be accepted as a valid photo ID at polling stations, starting with the local elections in May 2025, moving forward.
UK Government Veterans Family Support Information
UK Government Veterans Family Support information
SSAFA
SSAFA – The Armed Forces Charity (https://www.ssafa.org.uk/) provides practical, emotional and financial support to anyone serving or has ever served and their families. In particular, they offer advice on housing, debt, mobility issues, buying household goods, military mental illness, transition support, bereavement, homelessness, support for offenders and ex-offenders and residential housing.
Help For Heroes
At Help For Heroes, we believe every member of the Armed Forces community deserves the chance to live well after service.
Transitioning to civilian life can be tough, so we provide tailored support for physical and mental health, welfare, and social needs — for veterans and their families. We also help civilians who served under UK Command, for example Afghan interpreters.
Since 2007, we’ve supported over 25,000 people to live well after service.
Royal British Legion
The Royal British Legion is here to help members of the Royal Navy, British Army, Royal Air Force, veterans and their families. And we’re not going anywhere.
We support serving and ex-serving personnel all year round, every day of the week.
Our support starts after one day of service and continues through life, long after service is over.
Finance and Benefits
Oxfordshire Cost of Living Support
Oxfordshire Cost of Living Support - Help if you’re concerned about how to pay for everyday costs and financial support.
Oxfordshire Crisis Support Scheme
The Oxfordshire Residents Support Scheme is a local hardship fund designed to help residents who:
- are in, or at risk of being in, crisis
- need immediate help
- have no other source of financial support available.
Cost of Living Support for the Armed Forces Community
Cost of Living Support for the Armed Forces Community - If you are a member of Oxfordshire's Armed Forces Community, including family members and veterans, you may be able to access additional support.
Office for Veterans’ Affairs Guidance
Office for Veterans’ Affairs Guidance – Getting financial support as a veteran
Citizens Advice – Benefits and concessions for the armed forces, veterans and their families
Citizens Advice – Benefits and concessions for the armed forces, veterans and their families. There are many kinds of financial help available to people in the armed forces, veterans, and their families. You can use this information to find out what financial help might be available to you, depending on your situation. You can also use this information to find details of organisations that might be able to help you further.
Veterans Advisory and Pensions Committee (VAPC)
Veterans Advisory and Pensions Committee (VAPC) - Formerly known as the War Pensions Committees, we advise and liaise with veterans, their families and relevant organisations on their needs, issues and concerns. We assist, raise awareness, act as advocates and provide governance to the veterans’ community, and champion the rights of veterans and their families where there is injustice, inequality or a lack of fairness.
VAPC South East
VAPC South East - Covering the counties of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey, and West Sussex.
Forces Compare
Forces Compare - Founded and run by veterans, Force Compare is an independent search engine that specialises in comparing quotes for insurance to meet the unique requirements of those who serve or have served in the armed forces.
Rewards for Forces
Rewards for Forces is the UK's largest discount website featuring thousands of national and local discounts.
Veterans Railcard
Veterans Railcard - The Veterans Railcard gives 1/3 off most rail fares including Standard and First Class Anytime, Off-Peak and Advance fares to Veterans across England, Wales and Scotland, whether they are visiting family and friends or simply enjoying a day out.
You can also nominate a companion to get 1/3 off when travelling with you and up to 4 children travelling with you get 60% off (excluding Oyster journeys).
Royal British Legion
Royal British Legion - Information on benefits, loans and grants
Help for Heroes
Help for Heroes - Cost of Living Support
Employment and Skills
Connect to Work Oxfordshire
Connect To Work - Connect to Work is a free voluntary employment support programme that supports individuals facing health and wellbeing challenges, complex barriers to find employment or sustain their current role. Eligibility criteria includes those who’ve served in the armed forces, current reservists and the partners of those who served or have served.
Op ASCEND
Op ASCEND is a free service that supports veterans and their families in growing their careers. It’s run by the Forces Employment Charity and funded by government.
Whether you’re a veteran, a family member or an employer looking to attract skilled talent to your organisation, find out what signing up can do for you.
Jobcentre Plus
Jobcentre Plus - As part of the Armed Forces Covenant, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has initiatives that help current and former armed forces personnel and your families access Jobcentre Plus services. This includes having an armed forces champion in every Jobcentre Plus district who ensures that we provide support that meets your needs.
Career Transition Partnership (CTP)
The Career Transition Partnership brings together expert personal support, employers and training providers to help those who serve resettle into civilian life.
Mission Motorsport
Mission Motorsport, The Forces’ Motorsport Charity, supports the recovery and rehabilitation of individuals impacted by military service. It promotes both physical and mental wellbeing by creating opportunities within motorsport and the automotive industry.
Forces Employment Charity
Forces Employment Charity - We provide life-long, life-changing support across employment to all members of the Armed Forces community, and we support veterans in the justice system, providing tailored advice and assistance, regardless of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving.
Careers in agriculture and horticulture information
Careers in agriculture and horticulture information - Armed forces veterans can find a wealth of opportunities to thrive in farming and growing roles. Find out how you forge a new career in agriculture and horticulture.
HighGround: Life Beyond The Military - Outdoors
HighGround is a registered charity started in 2013 by Anna Baker Cresswell to help service leavers, veterans and reservists create their Life Beyond the Military – Outdoors. By providing expert support, guidance and advice, along with hands-on learning opportunities and access to work experience, we help ex-military personnel explore careers in the land-based sector.
HighGround is also the proud provider of Horticultural Therapy services to injured service personnel at DMRC Stanford Hall. Our Mission is to improve the wellbeing and employment prospects of serving personnel and veterans using the green environment and our Values are Ambitious, Authentic, Inclusive, Practical and Loyal.
RuralLink Veteran
Ruralink Veteran works with the land-based sector to develop accessible pathways into employment for service-leavers and veterans.
Smart Works
Smart Works - A UK-wide charity offering free interview-appropriate clothing and interview preparation support to all women who are unemployed or on a zero-hours contract.
Royal British Legion Employment Support Guides
Royal British Legion Employment Support Guides
Lifeworks
Lifeworks is an award-winning initiative from Royal British Veterans Enterprise, supporting participants take decisive next steps towards sustainable careers. Delivered by a team with military backgrounds, Lifeworks provides targeted, personalised support that adapts to individual circumstances. Whether someone needs immediate help to secure work or longer‑term guidance to rebuild confidence and direction. Its proven impact is reflected in strong employment outcomes, with the majority of participants progressing into paid work that aligns with their skills and ambitions.
Working for Oxfordshire County Council as a veteran
We know that the skills and experiences of veterans can add significant value to our workforce. We are keen to ensure veterans are encouraged to apply for roles within the council and are supported to maximise their potential.
Over 14,000 skilled and experienced individuals leave the Armed Forces each year. Ex-service personnel have strong:
- communication skills
- organisation and commitment
- problem-solving and adaptability
- leadership and management skills
- health and safety, security awareness
- team working skills.
In addition to the usual benefits of working for us, we also offer to veterans:
- guaranteed interview for those meeting the essential criteria for the role within three years of leaving the service
- a buddy system with an option to buddy with a member of staff with armed forces experience
Find out more
Health and wellbeing
NHS Support for veterans and service leavers
NHS Support for veterans and service leavers - Find out about healthcare and welfare support that's available, including Op RESTORE
NHS Thames Valley
NHS Thames Valley - Find local GP surgeries, dentists, pharmacies, hospitals and NHS sight tests.
Healthwatch
Healthwatch - We are an independent charity who work to make sure NHS health and social care leaders and other decision-makers hear your voice and use your feedback to improve the services that you use. We also provide help and advice if you have a question about local health services.
Defence Medical Welfare Service (Home - Armed Forces Support)
Defence Medical Welfare Service - We provide support to Tri-Service Serving Personnel, Reservists, Veterans and their families/carers, Military Bereaved, and the Merchant Navy across the UK. We also support NHS staff supporting Armed Forces Community patients.
Our support is independent and confidential. We can help with issues such as healthcare treatment, general wellbeing, stress and anxiety, mental health, substance misuse, financial worries, housing or homelessness concerns and employment challenges.
Smokefree Oxon (Smokefree Oxon – A Stop Smoking Service)
Smokefree Oxon - Free, confidential stop smoking service in Oxfordshire
Blind Veterans UK
Blind Veterans UK helps vision-impaired ex-Servicemen and women to rebuild their lives after sight loss.
We provide rehabilitation, training, practical advice and emotional support to veterans regardless of how or when they lost their sight. We’re here to help blind veterans regain their independence and live the life they choose.
Blesma The Limbless Veterans
Blesma The Limbless Veterans - Our mission is to assist limbless veterans in leading independent and fulfilling lives. We are dedicated to assisting serving and ex-service men and women who have suffered life-changing limb loss or the use of a limb, an eye or loss of sight.
Veterans Dementia Support UK
At Veterans Dementia Support we are dedicated to supporting all individuals who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces and Merchant Navy, along with their families friends navigating the challenges of dementia, Alzheimer's, or undiagnosed memory loss.
Support for carers of veterans
VALOUR – Information for Veteran Carers in England and Wales
Royal British Legion
Royal British Legion – Support for Carers
Royal British Legion Admiral Nurses
Royal British Legion Admiral Nurses - We work in partnership with Dementia UK to provide Admiral Nurses – a specialist service helping the Armed Forces community and their families living with dementia.
The Ripple Pond
The Ripple Pond - If you are supporting an injured veteran or serving person in the British Armed Forces, The Ripple Pond is here for you. Whether you are a partner, parent, sibling, adult child or chosen family, we exist to be a community where you are seen, heard and supported. Whether the injury is physical, psychological or emotional, we are here to support you as a family member in your own right. Membership is free, and we don't need to see any proof of injury.
Housing and homelessness
Contact your district council to find out:
- how to apply for housing
- what to do if you are homeless
- how to apply for grants to improve your home
- details of local housing associations
- how to apply for housing benefit
- information about affordable housing schemes in your area.
District councils in Oxfordshire
Cherwell District Council
Cherwell District Council – Housing advice on leaving the armed forces
Oxford City Council
Oxford City Council – Housing advice for people leaving the armed forces
South Oxfordshire District Council
South Oxfordshire Housing advice and support for those leaving the Armed Forces
Vale Of White Horse District Council
Vale Of White Horse District Council - Housing advice and support for those leaving the Armed Forces
West Oxfordshire District Council
West Oxfordshire District Council
Shelter
Shelter - Guidance for homeless, or at risk of homelessness, veterans
Veterans Aid
For over 90 years, Veterans Aid has been battling homelessness among the ex-service community.
The Stoll Foundation
The Stoll Foundation - We provide affordable, high-quality housing and support services to enable vulnerable and disabled veterans to lead fulfilling, independent lives.
Haig Housing
Haig Housing is proud to have served the British veteran community for almost 100 years. As the leading housing provider for ex-service personnel in the UK, the charity now owns over 1,500 properties across 50 locations.
The Trust endeavours to help eligible veterans in housing need, whether they are transitioning into civilian life or are simply in need of a helping hand.
Aspire Oxford
Across Oxfordshire, Aspire connects people with the practical help, relationships, and opportunities they need to move forward. Our work brings together employment support, housing pathways, wellbeing, digital inclusion, training, and community partnerships.
Alabare
Alabare - As a homeless veterans charity we walk alongside our veteran community as they rebuild their lives and move on to successful independent lives once more.
Homeless Oxfordshire
Homeless Oxfordshire - Not only are we the largest provider of accommodation for people experiencing homelessness in Oxfordshire, but we also provide a wide range of specialist support services beyond bricks and mortar.
Our residents are mothers, brothers, aunties, cousins. They are artists, cooks, teachers, veterans. They have experienced trauma, disadvantage, discrimination and social exclusion, and our support enables them to rebuild their lives.
Luther Street Medical Centre
Luther Street Medical Centre is an award-winning GP surgery providing healthcare to people experiencing homelessness in Oxford City.
We are a national centre of excellence, hosted by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust.
Mental health and wellbeing
Op COURAGE South East
Op COURAGE South East - Free NHS mental health service for ex-military personnel, reservists and service leavers in: Kent, Surrey and Sussex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Oxfordshire.
We're a health service created by veterans, for veterans. We understand military life but we're not part of the armed forces and we're here to help, not to judge. Our team are here to help you get the treatment and support you need to start feeling better again. Whether you want to speak to others who understand what it’s like to adjust to civilian life or feel you need to speak to a professional about your wellbeing, our team are on hand. We apply our understanding of mental health and military life to empower you to access a wide range of services.
Combat Stress
Combat Stress - We provide specialist treatment and support for veterans from every branch of the military and theatre of operation, focusing on those with PTSD, Complex-PTSD, and moral injury resulting from their experiences during military service.
Oxfordshire Talking Therapies
Oxfordshire Talking Therapies - We are a free NHS Talking Therapies service for Oxfordshire.
The Warrior Programme
The Warrior Programme - Our programme enables individuals to manage their emotions and to develop the resilience, focus and motivation to succeed in today’s world. The programme has been developed over the last fifteen years to meet the demands and challenges experienced by past and present members of the armed forces and their families.
Togetherall
Togetherall is free for veterans and the wider armed forces community. Togetherall is a digital mental health support service which is available online, 24/7, and is completely anonymous so you can express yourself freely and openly. Professionally trained Wall Guides monitor the community to ensure the safety and anonymity of all members. In addition to Togetherall's online community, you will have access to a wealth of useful resources and can work through tailored self-help courses covering topics such as anxiety, sleep, weight management, depression and many more.
Turning Point – Oxfordshire Roads to Recovery
Turning Point Roads to Recovery is an all purpose drug and alcohol treatment service located in Oxfordshire & commissioned by Oxfordshire County Council.
We are dedicated to promoting wellbeing and recovery from addiction when you feel ready to take those steps. Oxfordshire services offer a variety of treatment options; we will support you to find the right treatment for you to make positive changes.
The team across Oxfordshire includes doctors, nurses, psychologists, recovery workers, support workers, complementary therapists, peer mentor volunteers, counsellors and trainers. There are lots of different people who can offer their support, knowledge and encouragement to help you achieve your recovery.
There are Turning Point hubs in Oxford, Banbury, Witney and Didcot
WithYou
WithYou - We offer tailored support for military personnel, veterans and their families who have challenges with drug or alcohol use.
Support for Veteran Gurkhas
SSAFA Gurkha Services
Gurkha Services provide tailored support for Gurkha veterans and their families who have settled in the UK. Our Gurkha Services are available to all serving and veteran members of the Brigade of Gurkhas, and their families. We provide local SSAFA volunteers with up to date information, awareness and translation services, to ensure the Gurkha community have the same support opportunities as any other member of the Armed Forces community.
Gurkha Welfare Trust
Gurkha Welfare Trust - We provide financial, medical and development aid to Gurkha veterans, their families and communities.
Support for Veteran Women
Salute Her
Salute Her UK works to improve the lives of UK women in the Armed Forces, Veterans and Women At Sea by addressing the distinct and intersectional needs of women. We highlight the unique and often unrecognised challenges facing women in the Armed Forces, Veterans and Women At Sea both during and after service. For example, issues regarding gender, age, social class, race, disability and sexual orientation.
Female Veterans Alliance
Female Veterans Alliance - Our resources are here to inform, inspire and support female veterans across the UK. Explore our workshop reports, partner insights, and useful guides designed to help you navigate life beyond service.
Support for LGBTQ+ Veterans
VALOUR – LGBT+ Veterans
Fighting With Pride
We support LGBTQ+ veterans, serving personnel and their families.
Initially Fighting With Pride was created to support those affected by the ‘Gay Ban’ lifted on 12th January 2000, where thousands of LGBTQ+ service personnel were removed or forced from service and abandoned, having served with pride. Today FWP also supports current serving personnel, their families and those leaving the services today to be proud members of the LGBTQ+ Armed Forces Community.
We work with veteran supporting organisations to build capacity for LGBTQ+ veteran support, to recognise their service and help resolve the challenges they face in their lives beyond military service.
Operation Sterling
Operation Sterling - Working in partnership with Fighting With Pride, Age UK is delivering the Operation Sterling programme to help older LGBT+ veterans, service personnel and their families.