A project to help ex-service personnel is coming to Kent thanks to Ministry of Defence funding.

Base Camp KENT aims to increase understanding of the challenges facing the armed forces community, raise awareness and increase contact with service providers. It also aims to increase confidence, reduce isolation and promote better integration.

A similar initiative is already running in Aylesford under the Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI), but this one is to be rolled out over Gravesham as well as Medway and Shepway.

Gravesham council submitted the bid on behalf of Medway Council, Shepway District Council and RBLI. As part of the funding bid, the partners argued all communities need support at some time, be that vocational training, identifying and securing employment, managing financial matters or health.

Mainstream provision does not take into account the range of issues, challenges and barriers that ex-service personnel are likely to experience.

Leader of Gravesham council, Cllr John Cubitt (Con) said: “We all owe a debt to our military especially in these uncertain times.”

For details email anita.tysoe@gravesham.gov.uk or call 01474 337360.