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The veteran support charity marked 10 years of service this week, from their origins in 2012 supporting a total of 200 veterans.
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Soldier On has confirmed that the charity now supports over 8,000 veterans and family right across the country with a range of services including health, wellbeing and employment support.
Last year, the charity recorded over 3,000 health and wellbeing appointments, while their Pathways program supported the employment of 275 veterans and family members.
Over 2021, it also provided more than 5,000 cases of education and employment support, with 1,000 additional members joining Soldier On’s social connections program.
Chairman of Soldier On Lieutenant General Peter Leahy (Ret’d) explained that while numbers show that the organisation is having a positive impact, the organisation still needs continued support from the community.
“Ten years ago, we were faced with quite a grim outlook for many of our veterans and defence families. There was a distinct lack of support, connection and resources across the board, creating a sense of isolation and anguish for many. Over the past 10 years, Soldier On has worked closely with other ex-service organisations, government bodies, corporate entities and the wider public to secure stronger futures for our veterans and their families,” LTGEN Leahy said.
“We are seeing veterans reconnecting with their mates, families and themselves, exploring advanced training and education opportunities to diversify and expand their incredible skillsets, connecting with veteran supportive employers to secure meaningful long-term civilian employment, and receiving specialised psychological care to improve their health and wellbeing long after their service experiences.
“While the Australian community and organisations like Soldier On have achieved a great deal for the betterment of the veteran community over the past decade, the need for support has not dissipated. More action is needed from government bodies and the wider community to ensure that we are looking after those who have served our nation,” LTGEN Leahy concluded.
[Related: Soldier On CEO Ivan Slavich has resigned]
