22/06/2026
Lyons Reaffirms Support For Veterans At Armed Forces Day
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons used a visit to Coleraine for Armed Forces Day to underscore his backing for the veterans community and to highlight a new helpline.
Last month, he launched the Department for Communities' Veterans Support Line NI, Northern Ireland's first dedicated government helpline for armed forces veterans.
The service provides guidance on benefits entitlements and signposts other support for veterans, serving personnel and their families.
Minister Lyons said: "My Department has had significant engagement with veterans' organisations over recent months and we have identified a clear need within the armed forces community for tailored support.
"We have worked hard to better understand the barriers veterans face in their everyday lives and, in turn, identify how we can best support them in the range of areas for which we are responsible.
"I am delighted to be at this Armed Forces Day to raise awareness of the Support Line and encourage veterans and their families to avail of the service."
The Veterans Support Line NI complements the Department's wider advice services, including the Make the Call free telephone and outreach support and dedicated online resources.
The helpline can be reached on 0800 158 5556 or by texting ADVICE to 07860 042576. For more information visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/veterans-support
During the event, Minister Lyons and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly met members of the armed forces in Coleraine, including Seamus, the Irish Guards' regimental mascot.
Last month, he launched the Department for Communities' Veterans Support Line NI, Northern Ireland's first dedicated government helpline for armed forces veterans.
The service provides guidance on benefits entitlements and signposts other support for veterans, serving personnel and their families.
Minister Lyons said: "My Department has had significant engagement with veterans' organisations over recent months and we have identified a clear need within the armed forces community for tailored support.
"I am delighted to be at this Armed Forces Day to raise awareness of the Support Line and encourage veterans and their families to avail of the service."
The Veterans Support Line NI complements the Department's wider advice services, including the Make the Call free telephone and outreach support and dedicated online resources.
The helpline can be reached on 0800 158 5556 or by texting ADVICE to 07860 042576. For more information visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/veterans-support
During the event, Minister Lyons and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly met members of the armed forces in Coleraine, including Seamus, the Irish Guards' regimental mascot.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Any overnight mist soon clearing this morning. Then all parts will have a dry day with long sunny spells. Becoming very warm or hot although somewhat cooler along the east coast. Light winds. Maximum temperature 27 °C.Tonight:This evening will be dry with some late sunshine. Then the rest of the night will be dry with lengthy clear periods and the odd mist patch. Minimum temperature 14 °C.