THE Royal British Legion has now opened its doors with a new centre in Bromsgrove which offers support to past, present and future members of the Armed Forces.

This scheme, which runs Every Thursday morning from 9.30am until 1pm, is hosted by Bromsgrove District Council and takes place in The Hub on School Drive.

It aims to provide practical, emotional and financial support to military employees and their families whilst also encouraging any potential beneficiaries of the Royal British Legion to visit Bromsgrove rather than go to the central offices.

David Lowe, the Royal British Legion area manager, said: “I am delighted that we have an outreach service available in the Bromsgrove area as part of our move to make welfare more accessible and I thank Bromsgrove District Council for their support.”

Bromsgrove District Council civic head John Ruck, who is also ex-services and a member of The Royal British Legion, said: “I am so pleased that Outreach is coming to Bromsgrove and that we as a Council can support it through the use of our premises. As a veteran myself, I know that every so often everyone needs a bit of help and guidance, so to have it available right on your doorstep is fantastic. I am extremely proud that we as a district are doing more to support our local Armed Forces.”

The centre is run by welfare case officer for Worcestershire Katie Humphries and trained volunteer caseworker and county vice chairman Alan Kelly.

The Outreach programme, which is a Worcestershire pilot scheme and the first of its kind in the country, could pave the way for more outreach centres, manned by staff and volunteers, throughout the county.

For more information contact Alan Kelly on 0121 445 2574, email lan@alkel.co.uk

or visit The Hub.

The Royal British Legion spends approximately £1.7 Million per week on welfare.