A project offering support to ex-members of the armed forces and their families has launched in Carlisle and Eden.

Forces Link will connect with the armed forces community to provide them with support in a range of areas - from employability and mental health to family support.

The 12-month project is being led by Richie Hinson, an army veteran, and is supported by Cumbria County Council, Carlisle City Council, Eden District Council, and others.

Richie said: “There is a lot of good support out there, it is just trying to support that and encourage more people to use it.

“No-one will judge you for asking for support, we all have a lot of shared experiences and there is a lot more awareness of armed forces support now and the difficulties that some people may have faced from leaving the armed forces.”

Each week, he is using social media to draw attention to different topics and opportunities.

“If we can use it to reach one person, then it has been effective.”

At the moment, the focus is on finding employment opportunities.

“For me, it is just a case of trying to highlight the opportunities that already exist, unfortunately, some of the opportunities that exist are out of the county but it’s not a barrier to accessing it,” he commented.

The project is also connecting with national and local organisations to break down barriers surrounding transition out of the military into civilian life, and to find employment opportunities for the veteran community.

By speaking to veterans at meetings, lunch and breakfast clubs, Richie has been able to find out what the ex-members and their families would like to see in terms of support and addressing their needs.

Carlisle City Councillor Elizabeth Mallinson said: “As Carlisle City Council’s Armed Forces Champion I am delighted to see this that this fantastic project is now underway and has appointed Richie as the project co-ordinator.

“Richie is taking great strides forward and it’s great to see the project develop.

“It’s already providing benefits to our Armed Forces community.

“We’re pleased to be a partner in this valuable initiative.”