Launchpad Veterans

Launchpad is the largest residential charity for veterans in the north of England. Every day, about 80 veterans, most of whom come from a homeless background, are cared for in Speke House, Liverpool, and Avondale House in Byker, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Launchpad's purpose is to help veterans make that transition from military to civilian life, either as they leave the services or as is more usual, several years after they have left the Armed Forces. Launchpad provides an independent home for the veterans within our two buildings, in refurbished and comfortable self-contained flats but with access to communal facilities. Soon after their arrival, we work closely with each resident to plan their route towards independent living. We liaise with numerous organisations to provide those residents with a variety of service, for instance to cover welfare issues, mental and physical health challenges, diversionary activities, provision of advice about training and employment and finally, advice about permanent accommodation. Launchpad's houses are the focus around which specialist providers can work, providing the veterans with any support they need. Since inception in August 2013, Launchpad has assisted almost 500 veterans. 71% of residents successfully move on to settled accommodation while 42% (pre-pandemic figure) leave in paid employment. The remainder benefit in the time they spend with Launchpad but tend to move on without taking full advantage of the support that's made available to them. We are proud of these outcomes and strive to do better. It costs about £740K a year to run the staff, support and facilities; much of that is covered through rent and grants, including from Liverpool and Newcastle City Councils, but we still have to raise another £250K or so from other sources. So, it is with huge thanks we welcome people's donations and efforts to raise funds for Launchpad.