Charity searches for 1,800 veterans in Lincoln and South Lincolnshire for free essentials packs

Do you know a veteran who would benefit from a support pack?

Age UK Lincoln & South Lincolnshire is planning the gesture under its new Vitals for Veterans project.

It aims to deliver 1,800 packs, free of charge, across Lincoln and South Lincolnshire between now and November to veterans in need of some support.

The packs will contain essential items such as tea, toilet roll, hand soap, biscuits and other food items.

Alongside these, there will be a few pick-me-ups, such as forget me not seeds, designed to brighten a veteran’s day and show them that they will never be forgotten.

The project is being supported by funding from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund, donations from local councillors and businesses, and a team of volunteers.

Michele Jolly, chief executive officer of Age UK Lincoln & South Lincolnshire, said: “The recent pandemic has highlighted what it feels like to be lonely and isolated. For many older people this was their reality before and during Covid-19 and it will continue to be so afterwards.

“The focus of this project is on delivering a pack for the veterans in our area and perhaps also helping to tackle loneliness, through interaction with the volunteers who will deliver the packages, and raise awareness of our charity and the service we can offer.”

If you are a veteran, a veterans group, or know an older veteran who would appreciate some support, visit www.ageuk.org.uk/lincolnsouthlincolnshire/ or call 03455 564 144 for more information.