VOB is the first facility of its kind in the UK—dedicated to offering immediate, meaningful support to veterans and their families in a welcoming, safe environment. What sets us apart is that we’re led by veterans, for veterans, including our specialist mental health team. We understand their struggles because we’ve lived them.
While we may be smaller than the national charities, our impact speaks volumes.
Many veterans delay seeking help until they’re in crisis—often too late. With suicide rates among former service members on the rise, the need for urgent, accessible support has never been greater.
That’s why at VOB, we remove barriers to care. Veterans experiencing suicidal thoughts can access help immediately—no 6-to-12-week waiting lists. Our integrated approach means they don’t face these challenges alone. We have contacts with local veteran-focused charities to offer a full spectrum of support, from mental health services to housing, job training, and employment assistance.
At VOB, we’re not just offering help—we’re saving lives.
Our facility serves as a safe haven for veterans to connect with like-minded individuals. Unlike other organizations that offer limited coffee mornings, our drop-in center accommodates veteran’s schedule, including evenings and weekends.
We also give back to the community by renovating a WW2 barracks and restoring equipment for the Lashenden Air and Warfare Museum. We’re not just another charity; we’re changing the system. Instead of bureaucratic delays, we aim for immediate action.
Our approach sets us apart. We provide immediate access to support, available six days a week. We’re also the only full-time drop-in centre in the Southeast, catering to the needs of working-age veterans.
Unlike larger charities, our organization is staffed by veterans, ensuring a deeper understanding of veterans’ needs and experiences. Our goal is to offer quick and effective assistance, running classes on finances, computer skills, and CV writing during evenings and weekends for accessibility.