3 minute read
The Unspoken Duty of Aftercare
When young recruits sign up to serve in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), they are often enticed by the promise of a glitzy salary package, a chance to defend their nation, and a life-changing adventure.
What is not discussed enough, however, is what happens to them after their time with the ADF comes to an end. The aftercare of our veterans is as crucial as their service and while great improvements have been made, each year there are still some 300 veterans who become homeless.
Vasey RSL Care has supported the veteran community with affordable housing, home care and residential aged care for many years.
“Among our ex-service accommodation residents, we see a number who face ongoing issues that need more than just a roof over their head”, says Janna Voloshin, Vasey RSL Care’s CEO.
“After a great deal of research, industry consultation and input from the veteran community, we have developed a unique strategic initiative, The V Centre – Veteran Empowerment Program. This is a program combining an industry-first purpose-designed facility offering transitional housing with individualised support services for veterans at risk of or currently experiencing homelessness.
We anticipate participants will stay for between 3 and 9 months – but there is no set length – it’s about what each individual needs.”
The pilot program has garnered a lot of attention in the political world, and when Governor General His Excellency General the Honourable David John Hurley and his wife Her Excellency Linda Hurley were in town recently, they took the opportunity to visit The V Centre and meet with Vasey RSL Care staff and residents to hear about how this program will change the path of veterans’ lives.
“The stark reality is that veterans are almost three times more likely to experience homelessness than the general public,” says Chris Gray, Executive General Manager Veteran Services, “Which is particularly concerning given Australia’s current housing crisis.”
”The aftercare of veterans is not just a duty; it’s our moral mission. It’s time for our society to understand the sacrifices these men and women have made and take care of them when they need it,” says Janna.
Chris Gray will lead the initiative for Vasey RSL Care and has been busy lobbying for government funding towards the project.
“Over the past decade, we have seen a substantial and sustained increase in the demand for affordable housing from the ex-service community, especially among the younger veterans. What’s even more concerning is that a lot of these veterans arrive at our doors in homeless situations, sometimes with nothing more than a backpack’, says Chris.
Janna adds: “The V Centre is a first for Australia. It’s modelled on successful overseas programs and provides a veteran-specific solution. A similar program in the UK reported 90% of participants going on to lead independent lives. We can’t wait to get this up and running – we truly believe it will not only change lives – it will save lives.
Heidi Flower
Vasey RSL Care
www.vaseyrslcare.org.au/our-services/veteran-services/the-v-centre
