COLCHESTER’s MP and leading politicians say veterans “should never be left facing housing insecurity”, following an ex-soldier speaking out.
An ex-soldier who served within Merville Barracks’s Parachute Regiment has spoken to the Gazette as their family is set to be evicted from an army estate in September.
They have raised serious concerns on how veterans and service families are being treated after leaving the armed forces, especially those who transition form 16 Air Assault Brigade and the wider military community in the city.
The veteran believes there is a rising number of soldiers leaving with the families which are facing housing insecurity, possession proceedings, and homelessness.
They also say current army charity infrastructure is overwhelmed and there are not enough houses to meet the rising demand for homes for veterans.
When it comes to council housing, the veteran thinks ex-soldiers should be given higher banding.
Over the last year, they have sought help from the system which is in place and has spoken to MP Pam Cox, Councillors David King and Dave Harris but have so far not received any support.
They have now reacted to the situation.
Ms Cox said: “Those who have served our country should never be left facing housing insecurity or the threat of homelessness when they transition into civilian life.
“Colchester has a proud and longstanding connection to the Armed Forces, including many personnel and families from 16 Air Assault Brigade.
“That is why it is essential that both national government and local services work together to ensure that no veteran or service family falls through the gaps.
“I have raised local issues with Colchester Borough Homes and the council and want to see more action taken with them and the Ministry of Defence to ensure anyone leaving the armed forces isn’t disadvantaged.
“We know there are housing pressures in Colchester, and we need to do more to provide a range of option for veterans who want to continue to live here.
“There are clearly pressures within the system, particularly around access to housing and the transition from service family accommodation into civilian housing.
“I recognise the concerns raised about short notice periods, the legal status of military housing, and the challenges veterans face when seeking support from local authorities and charities that are themselves under strain.
“Our veterans and their families deserve security, dignity and proper support after their service, and I will continue working locally and nationally to achieve that.”
The MP says since she was elected in July 2024, she has supported a number of residents with “complex housing cases” and works with the council, housing providers, and organisations to try resolve individual situations.
During her time in Parliament recently, she is also working with ministers on a new “Armed Forces Bill” which should provide “more security and support for veterans through the Armed Forces Covenant”.
The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise from the nation that those who serve or have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly and not disadvantaged by their service.
Ms Cox has also confirmed her team is arranging a meeting with the veteran to discuss the issues further.
Deputy Colchester Council leader Councillor David King said: “I am sorry for any family struggling with housing.
“We are proud of our veterans and Gold Standard Armed Forces Covenant.
“And have looked hard at the issues raised.
“We are doing all what we should and can promise we will help any family facing homelessness. And continue to do all we can to acquire new homes to help those most in need.”
Berechurch ward Councillor Dave Harris said: “It is a fact that not enough social housing exists for any in need Colchester residents.
“I believe and support the Army Covenant.
“We must do right by our army veterans.”
According to Colchester Borough Homes, out of the 1,732 homes let over the last six months through the Gateway to Homechoice Partnership, 36 were allocated to members of the armed forces.
Across the seven partner authorities, there are currently 15,478 applicants on the housing register, of which 146 are verified members of the Armed Forces.
A Colchester Borough Homes spokesperson added: “We recognise the significant contribution that veterans and their families make, and supporting the Armed Forces community is an important priority for Colchester. We are committed to upholding both the principles and the practical intent of the Armed Forces Covenant, ensuring those who have served are treated fairly and are not disadvantaged when accessing housing.
“Through our housing allocations policy, applications from veterans and service leavers are assessed based on their current housing need and individual circumstances. This includes consideration of transition from military life, the loss of service accommodation, and the need to establish a settled home. Where appropriate, local connection requirements can be applied flexibly in line with national guidance.
“Banding decisions are not based solely on previous military income, but on an applicant’s current situation, including housing need, financial circumstances and any risk of homelessness. Where there is clear evidence of need, veterans can receive appropriate priority within the allocations framework.
“We recognise that moving on from military accommodation can be a challenging period, particularly given the relatively short timescales involved, and we would always encourage service leavers to engage with us as early as possible so we can provide advice and assess their housing options.
“Like many areas, Colchester faces very high demand for social housing, and we must balance the needs of all applicants, including vulnerable individuals and families. Our approach is to apply the policy consistently and transparently, ensuring each case is considered on its merits.
“We also work closely with partners and specialist organisations to support veterans, including providing advice, signposting to dedicated services, and ensuring our processes reflect our Armed Forces Covenant commitments.
“Anyone concerned about their housing situation is encouraged to contact Colchester Borough Homes, where tailored advice and support can be provided.”
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