A new housing programme for ex-service personnel gets the Mayor's backing.
The Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire has praised the opening of new accommodation for homeless ex-service personnel in Hull and is committed to backing similar initiatives across the region.
The renovated property was delivered by local charity Hull 4 Heroes, with major support from BAE Systems. It provides three self-contained units that offer emergency accommodation and wraparound support for individuals in crisis.
The scheme is designed to help ex-service personnel regain their independence – enabling them to transition back into civilian life with dignity and respect – while reducing pressure on councils, the NHS, police and other emergency services.
Speaking at the opening, the Mayor praised the partnership behind the scheme and highlighted the role the Combined Authority can play in supporting future projects.
Luke Campbell MBE, Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire, said:
“This is an outstanding example of what can be achieved when charities, volunteers and businesses come together for the right reasons.
“Hull 4 Heroes know their community and they know the barriers. When support is unlocked, they move fast – that’s what we need more of.
“This is exactly the type of initiative the Combined Authority should support. I’m very excited to get involved in the next steps and help make more projects like this happen across Hull and East Yorkshire.”
During the visit, the Mayor spent time with Helen, Paul, Barry and the wider Hull 4 Heroes team, hearing directly about their work and the lived experience behind the development.
The project, which has taken more than a year to complete, has already welcomed its first resident and coincides with the charity's 10th anniversary.
The Mayor will follow up with Hull 4 Heroes and key partners to develop a joined-up approach across Hull and East Yorkshire, focusing on what works locally and how the Combined Authority can remove practical barriers.
He will also explore how the Mayor’s Community Fund could support the expansion of veteran accommodation and support services, helping proven organisations move further and faster.
The Mayor added:
“This is about making decisions with people, not for people. If we want policies that work in practice, we need organisations like Hull 4 Heroes shaping them from the ground up.”