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Former Royal Engineer who slept in car parks backs call to help homeless veterans
Former Royal Engineer Lea Smith is supporting calls for long-term help for veterans who face homelessness, saying many struggle after leaving the Forces and losing the structure and support they relied on. His experience highlights concerns that support for veterans should continue beyond Remembrance Day.
Smith, 49, served from 1996 to 1999 and became homeless after redundancy, addiction and bankruptcy; after rehabilitation in 2020, he became a volunteer and began studying theology. Green Pastures, which houses more than 1,500 people, says 2,180 veteran households in England experience or are at risk of homelessness each year. The charity is urging ministers to make veterans a priority and consider expanding social investment, citing £50 million from nearly 2,000 investors.
In short
- Lea Smith is calling for lasting support for homeless veterans.
- 2,180 veteran households in England face homelessness or risk each year.
- Green Pastures says private investment could help fund more homes.
Explained simply
Leaving the Armed Forces can mean losing the routine, accommodation and support that service members have relied on. Some veterans face homelessness after leaving, or later in life when problems such as job loss, debt or addiction arise.
Lea Smith served in the Royal Engineers from 1996 to 1999 and later experienced homelessness. Green Pastures is a charity that provides housing and support; it says thousands of veteran households in England face homelessness or the risk of it each year.
The issue is part of a wider discussion about how support for veterans can continue after they leave the Forces. Charities and others are asking how housing and longer-term help can reach those who need it throughout the year.
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