Yahoo News Byker charity that helps homeless and unemployed veterans receives royal visit
Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester have visited Byker's Avondale House which supports veterans. Prince Richard and Duchess Birgitte spoke to resident Tony Pallister about his experiences serving and the support that he has been given from the charity.
Tony Pallister, who goes by Tony, served in the Coldstream Guards between 2007 and 2009, including Guard Duty at Buckingham Palace, St James’s Palace and the Tower of London. He was involved in the Trooping of the Colour and the state opening of the Houses of Parliament.
Tony moved into Launchpad’s Avondale House in August 2023 after he became unemployed and homeless. Launchpad provides vital accommodation and targeted support to UK Armed Forces’ veterans experiencing homelessness and unemployment.
On the visit, Tony said: "It has been a really nice day, the Duke and Duchess were lovely people and really down to earth. They were asking how I was doing and what my time in service was like, my experience with the Royal Family has always been positive so this was great.
"I explained a bit about my background and how I found myself homeless, and Launchpad gave me a roof over my head and everything I need is in this building. They also give us activities to do so I am so grateful for their support."
The Duke and Duchess were greeted by Year 6 children from Byker Primary School and St. Lawrence’s RC Primary School. Their Royal Highnesses also received a guided tour of the house.
The charity has two houses in the North East, in Newcastle and Durham, providing accommodation for 50 homeless veterans who come from all over the UK. There is also a third house in Liverpool which provides accommodation for a further 50 people.
Launchpad opened Avondale House on the Byker estate in Newcastle upon Tyne in 2013, providing 33 self-contained one-bedroom flats and communal areas for former serving personnel and their partners.
Residents are supported for up to two years, longer if necessary, and since 2013, Launchpad has supported over 700 veterans. On average, over the last five years, 61% of veterans supported by Launchpad have successfully moved on and 50% left in paid employment.
