Veterans' charity opens new hubs as demand soars

A "life-changing" charity which provides housing and mental health support for military veterans has announced expansion plans because of "outrageous" demand.

Burnley-based Healthier Heroes said it was opening new hubs - in Preston and Morecambe - to help former service personnel and their families.

Managing director Andrew Powell said the charity made a huge difference to veterans when they were at a low ebb.

"It allows them to put themselves back on the right path," he explained, "and give them the incentive that the future is bright and they can achieve what they want to achieve."

Mr Powell, an ex-colour sergeant who served in the infantry for 16 years, said he set up the charity in 2018 because he wanted to give something back.

He told BBC Radio Lancashire he was excited about Healthier Heroes' expansion into Preston city centre and Morecambe's West End.

"The demand is just absolutely outrageous," the 44-year-old said.

"We're having to expand our outreach services where we are providing community hubs for Armed forces veterans and their families to drop in and get help and support.

"There's so many people out there that need support right across Lancashire."

He said many veterans supported by the charity end up going on to volunteer and help others facing similar challenges and issues.

"We have got a lot of lived experience within our staff as well," Mr Powell added.

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