The first-ever dedicated government support line for armed forces veterans in Northern Ireland has been launched by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons.

Operated by the Department for Communities, the Veterans Support Line NI will offer crucial information regarding benefits eligibility and additional support services. The helpline is available to veterans, active serving personnel, service members transitioning back into civilian life, and their families.

The creation of this bespoke service follows discussions with the Veterans Commissioner and various support groups, which identified a clear requirement for a tailored framework to assist the armed forces community.

Minister Lyons said: "I'm delighted to announce that the Veterans' Support Line NI will go live from today – offering a free telephone and text service and providing a free and confidential needs assessment. This pathway will help identify potential eligibility for benefits, support, and services and will act as a single point of entry to the Department for Communities.

"The need to build the trust and confidence of veterans lies at the very heart of the service and staff have undergone veterans-related training and the highest level of security clearance to safeguard the quality and confidentiality of the service. "Hearing first-hand the lived experiences of those who serve currently in our armed forces, those who have left active service, and their families is absolutely crucial to ensuring that we provide the right services in the right way to meet the specific needs of the veterans community.

"No one should face disadvantage when trying to access the support to which they are entitled."

To ensure the ongoing success of the initiative, the Department has appointed a senior official as the strategic lead for future service delivery. This work will continue to be guided by regular engagement with representative groups and the Veterans Commissioner.

The newly established helpline expands upon the Department's existing expert advice network designed to help people across Northern Ireland access welfare and support. This network already includes dedicated digital resources alongside the Make the Call free phone line and outreach advice services.

Veterans Commissioner David Johnstone said: "This is a significant and positive step as we work towards ensuring that there is no disadvantage towards members of our Armed Forces and veterans in the areas, including housing and welfare, that are within the remit of this Department. I look forward to further engagement with the Minister and his officials on these important matters and would like to thank him and his staff for this proactive and important work."

The Veterans Support Line NI is available to contact on 0800 158 5556.