A new initiative to tackle loneliness among former Servicemen and women is to be launched by UK Nottingham & Nottinghamshire.

Forces Friends will work with veterans aged 60 plus and their dependents, as well as involve volunteers with a Forces background.

The project has been made possible by a Royal British Legion grant of £37,605 to fund a project co-ordinator, volunteer training and additional launch costs.

The service will aim to tackle the loneliness and isolation that older veterans can experience. It will help them find activities and social opportunities in their areas and aims to help build their confidence.

In addition, the project aims to recruit volunteers with a Forces or Royal British Legion affiliation and Service personnel who are leaving the Forces after their period of service.

Volunteers will also be drawn from the Royal British Legion branch network to provide support where it is most needed.

Maria Cooke, development manager at Age UK Notts, said: “The Legion grant will enable us to address the issue of loneliness amongst our older veterans community.

“Funding that allows us to work directly with veterans and their dependents will provide a valuable opportunity for people to make positive changes. The service will operate in North Nottinghamshire and help bring communities closer together.”

For more details of how to volunteer or to nominate someone that may benefit from the service, contact Nick Rhodes, project co-ordinator, on 07872 839605 or email [email protected]