Homeless veterans at Launchpad’s Speke House in Liverpool enjoyed a joyful Christmas this year, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of local businesses and organisations that donated gifts, food, and essentials. These contributions brought festive cheer and lasting support to veterans rebuilding their lives.
Throughout 2024, Speke House partnered with organisations including AstraZeneca, Liverpool John Lennon Airport, Morrisons, and New Beginnings Tiling Academy, creating life-changing opportunities for residents to gain confidence, learn new skills, and find a sense of belonging. From adventurous activities such as sailing and coasteering to hands-on training in IT, gardening, and trades, these collaborations transformed lives and prepared veterans for employment. Some of these activities were partially funded through Op FORTITUDE, which is supported by The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust to deliver a centralised referral pathway into veteran-supported housing.
Christmas Cheer, Community Spirit
The festive season, often a tough time for veterans far from family, was made brighter with the help of AstraZeneca, Yodel Speke, and Everton in the Community, whose donations brought smiles, laughter, and joy to residents.
A Year of Transformation
This year marked a turning point for many veterans at Speke House, driven by the transformational support of the Government’s Reducing Veterans Homelessness and Op FORTITUDE Programme. These initiatives provided critical resources and centralised pathways to stable housing, empowering veterans to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
Thanks to the additional support of organisations including CatZero, Models for Heroes, and Bearded Men Adventure, veterans also enjoyed a packed calendar of activities, volunteer opportunities, and training.
Sam Jackson, Manager of Launchpad’s Speke House, said:
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of the incredible organisations, who have made such a difference to our residents’ lives. Their support is a cornerstone of their journey toward stability and success.
“For those inspired to get involved in 2025, opportunities abound to make a difference—whether through volunteering, donations, or team-building activities that support residents directly. Please join us in creating brighter futures for the veterans who have given so much for our country.”
Organisations Supporting Speke House in 2024:
AstraZeneca | Morrisons Speke | Asda Hunts Cross | Tesco Woolton | Yodel Speke – Gemma | Haleon Health Partners | The Brick (Wigan) | Local Neighbourhood Fund (Liverpool City Council) | The Battle Back Centre Royal British Legion | CatZero | Army Benevolent Fund | Bearded Men Adventures | Leonardo Hotels | Northwest Angling Academy CIC | Offshore Painting Services | Ladies Friendship Group (Childwall) | Models for Heroes | St Aiden’s Church | Everton in the Community | Liverpool John Lennon Airport | Hays Recruitment | Royal Navy | Speke Hall Liverpool (National Trust) | Donkey Sanctuary | Seascope Maritime Training | New Beginnings Tiling Academy | CE3 | Op Fortitude | Liverpool foodbank +plus.
