Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Veterans Dementia Support UK, based in Eastleigh constituency, wants to expand its work by opening more support groups for ex-service personnel but faces delays in obtaining DBS checks.
We are incredibly proud of our veterans in Eastleigh, and Veterans Dementia Support UK based in my constituency does fantastic work assisting veterans. It wants to expand its work by opening more support groups for ex-service personnel, who want to volunteer but are struggling to get their DBS checks in a timely fashion. Will the Minister work with colleagues to ensure that veterans charities can continue to do their vital work by reducing the wait times for DBS checks to be processed?
The hon. Member makes a valid point, and I will look into it to see what I can do.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide concrete timeline or specific actions for reducing DBS check wait times
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A constituent was discharged from the military for being gay and received redress through the LGBT financial recognition scheme but has not attended any veteran support groups due to feelings of unworthiness.
My constituent Liz was thrown out of the military for being gay and has since received redress for this injustice via the LGBT financial recognition scheme. Liz told me that she has never attended any veteran support group because her discharge from the military left her feeling unworthy of the title of veteran. What steps is the Department taking to encourage those veterans to engage with support schemes like the brilliant female veterans scheme running at Tuppenny Barn in Southbourne in my constituency to rebuild trust after the grave injustice that they experienced?
I thank the hon. Member for raising the important point that those who were treated disgracefully by the former policy under the military may be struggling with being able to get back in touch. I can assure her that the armed forces family would welcome her constituent back with open arms. If the hon. Member is happy to pass details on to me, we can provide several ways of doing that—for example, via the regimental association, which I am sure will be only too happy to meet her constituent.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify concrete steps or timeline for rebuilding trust with veterans who faced historical injustice in military service
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
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Context
There is a concern that one homeless veteran is unacceptable and a significant issue.
I am sure the whole House will agree that one homeless veteran is one too many. Will the Minister outline how the landmark new veterans strategy will boost support to prevent any veteran falling into homelessness?
I thank my hon. Friend for raising that incredibly important point. As he says, one veteran on the streets is one too many. The new veterans strategy reiterated our commitment, and we were pleased to announce an additional £12 million for vital homelessness services, such as the reducing veteran homelessness programme. I remind Members that Op Fortitude is the pathway for veterans to access housing support when they need it.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Tom Harrison House in Liverpool is the only facility offering support to veterans with addictions.
Last week, I met Paula, Dougie and Ash in my constituency at Tom Harrison House, the only facility in the country offering support to veterans who have addictions. Will the Minister meet me and workers from that organisation to discuss whether statutory funding could help us to offer such support to more veterans?
I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the important work of Tom Harrison House. I have heard many times of the unique nature of the support that it provides. We must support veterans in using that particular service, and see what we can do to further such support. I would be more than happy to visit.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to a specific meeting or funding proposal for Tom Harrison House
Response accuracy