A DONATION of a new laptop and mobile phone has helped a service supporting veterans and their families in Newport get grants and attract more members.

The kit was donated to Newport Veterans Hub by Jehu, a contractor working with Newport City Homes on a new development of 76 apartments in Coverack Road.

The hub is based at Rodney Parade and offers support to veterans, their partners and children.   

David Watkins, the service's chief executive of Newport Veterans Hub, said: “I used to hand write notes but now the laptop is used for everything. It's now our main device. I can work more efficiently.

"Jehu also funded Exel so we’ve been able to apply for grants and funding in the proper manner.    

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“It’s made things so much more professional and streamlined. The smartphone allows us to do so much more as a volunteer group. Veterans can access support and be referred while we are sat down with them, straight away.”   

The support group started in 2020.

Mr Watkins said: “We treat the veteran and their family as a single unit. It's not veteran only. That can often be a barrier to accessing support. 

"We have veterans who are single parents with children. Some of them feel more comfortable with their partner or carer with them and opening up full access takes away those simple barriers.    

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"By supporting the families you're supporting the veteran indirectly. If the wife is suffering from mental health, you're helping the veteran and the children in the family "

The volunteers refer veterans to a wide range of support from food parcels to getting back into work.   

He said: "We help with guaranteed interview schemes. Some companies want veterans for their skillset and their mindset. Their skills can be taught to other people in that workplace. Businesses are recognising that now. Veterans go above and beyond what they’re paid to do."

The total donation made to the hub was £2,474.