Reflecting on VE and support for veterans

As we celebrated the 80th Anniversary of VE Day this week, events across the country showed the nation at its best. Reflecting on the immense sacrifice made by so many in defence of our nation, way of life and freedom.

It was also the week that Labour have announced a new UK-wide veteran support system, called VALOUR, which will ensure veterans have easier access to essential care and support – a huge step towards our manifesto commitment to implement the Armed Forces Covenant. The Armed Forces set most people up for success in life, but when veterans need help, support can often be a postcode lottery. VALOUR will be set up regionally to work with enterprising health, employment and housing charities to shape more tailored local support.

I’m sure this announcement will be welcome in Oldham West, Chadderton & Royton through providing specialist support for the 2,498 veterans we have in our community. I know first-hand that veterans possess unique skills, and yet face unique challenges.

I’m proud to have great grandparents, and grandfathers who served in the army, as many will. And there I was able to see closely the tight bond of the service community in my time as a Remembrance Sunday organiser for a number of years, and as we worked to secure refurbishment of war memorials across the borough, something every generation should take responsibility for.

Here in Oldham, we are proud of our heritage and of the role our people played in the war effort, both on the front lines and at home. Their bravery and unity continue to inspire us.

But remembrance must go hand in hand with responsibility. Our veterans deserve more than gratitude in words – they deserve action. That means access to proper housing, healthcare, and mental health support. It means listening to their voices and ensuring that no one who has served this country is left behind.

As we mark this important anniversary, what better time to commit to building a country that truly honours their legacy – one that values peace, justice, and care for one another.