Over the Threshold

Knowing you have accommodation arranged as you prepare to transition into civilian life can make the process much smoother. There is a lot to consider, but assistance and schemes are available to welcome you home

PROPERTY

One of the most important aspects of housing on civvy street to be aware of is that your rent, mortgage or bills will not automatically be deducted from your wage. For this reason, understanding how to budget and manage your rent or bills with your new income is imperative to ensure you always have a roof over your head.

Renting might be the best way for you to get accommodation upon leaving your time in service. Considering your income, any savings and benefits you are entitled to (learn more on page 14) finding an affordable home to rent is imperative. MoneyForce (support. veteransgateway.org.uk) is on hand to help you and any dependents to manage money to ensure important outgoings, such as rent payments, can be met.

When you know your release date from the Armed Forces, the MoD’s Joint Service Housing Advice (JSHAO) (www.gov.uk) is a critical tool. Providing advice and information on moving into civilian accommodation and assisting on the transition to civilian life, you can also apply for social housing ahead of leaving service.

HOMELESSNESS

Unfortunately, homelessness is an issue that is experienced by some ex-service personnel. Haig Housing (www.haighousing.org.uk) has worked to help veterans experiencing homelessness to get intorented accommodation. The charity is committed to bringing housing options that are accessible, affordable and can leave people with a regained sense of camaraderie living beside fellow veterans.

Haig provides housing opportunities across the UK, with applications continually open on their website. The Royal British Legion (www.britishlegion. org.uk), Shelter (www.shelter.org. uk), and Help 4 Homeless Veterans (help4homelessveterans.org) are two additional charities working to get people off the streets and in to housing were possible. Homelessness amongst the veteran community is, thankfully, reducing, but with

challenges coming to terms with civilian life, mental health conditions and isolation, homelessness is still an issue. But there is help on hand.

Remember your rent or mortgage payments will not automatically be deducted from your pay

CHARITIES

Regardless of how prepared you are, organised or financially stable, anyone can find themselves falling on hard times. If this were to occur, there are a multitude of charities on hand to provide veteran specific accommodation. The Cobeso Housing Cluster – created from a range of charitable and social housing organisations – works to open the doors to specialist hostels, supported housing and shorthold tenancies.

Formed with the expertise and dedication of 30 veterans’ housing organisations and charities, you are sure to find a clear pathway into safe, affordable accommodation regardless of your relationship and familial status. Veterans’ Gateway (0808 802 1212) is accessible 24/7 with housing specialists on hand through their helpline.