Johnny Mercer, Minister for Veterans' Affairs, visited Watford to learn about work that is going on within the town to support the veteran’s community following an invitation from local MP Dean Russell.
ONS figures from 2022 revealed that more than a thousand people living in Watford are veterans of the UK armed forces. Dean invited the Minister to Watford to learn about the various initiatives taking place to support this particular community.
The visit started at the Sun Sports Social Club in Cassiobury where the Minister met with some veterans, alongside former Watford FC player Luther Blissett, who shared with the Minister their work with Forces United.
They also discussed with Johnny the work they are doing to raise awareness for veterans mental health and support for those suffering with PTSD.
The Minister then travelled to Abbots Langley where he met with the local veterans support group, who got to question the Minister on issues such as housing for those coming out of the armed forces, as well as access to veteran friendly GP practices.
Speaking after the visit Dean said “I would like to thank all members of our veteran’s community for taking the time to meet with the Minister today, and I’d like to thank the Minister for coming to visit us.
“His commitment to supporting all of those who have served and are serving, as well as their loved ones, is unwavering and he is such a passionate advocate for veterans and serving personnel.”
