A SLICE of a £1m government fund shared amongst ten combined authorities has been signed off to support homeless veterans in the region.

Around £90,000 made available from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government was given to the Tees Valley Combined Authority to help provide veterans, of all ages, with support.

The money, which will be used to provide specialist help to Armed Forces members, at risk of homelessness or homeless, will also fund training sessions to raise awareness.

Nichola Meredith of The Royal British Legion said the funding would help volunteers "make real differences" to lives of veterans and their families in desperate situations.

The Northern Area Manager said: “We rely on donations to deliver our vital work so it is fantastic to receive this funding which will help us make a real difference to the lives of Service personnel, veterans and their families in the Tees Valley who are experiencing or facing homelessness.“Life for those in the Armed Forces comes with a whole host of challenges and difficulties, this money will enable us to provide dedicated, specialist advice and support to help combat and prevent homelessness.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said he was "pleased" that they money would go on to support The Royal British Legion and their projects across the Tees Valley.

He said: “This is the time of year when we all remember the sacrifices every member of our Armed Forces made to protect our country and allow us to enjoy the freedoms we do today – we will never forget them.

“Many of our veterans have dedicated their lives to our country, playing a vital role in keeping our country safe.

"That is why we should give them all the support they need, especially those who are now in difficult circumstances and need a roof over their head.

“I am really pleased we can use this money and support The Royal British Legion with all their projects in the Tees Valley and give help to the real heroes of our region."