What happened when a veteran turned to us for help

Reaching out for support came at one of the most difficult times in Mark's* life.

After a relationship breakdown left him without a secure place to live, Mark, an Armed Forces veteran, contacted us for help. Although he was not sleeping rough, he had nowhere permanent to call home.

At the same time, he was living with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), experiencing significant social isolation and struggling with his wellbeing.

Like many people facing homelessness, Mark's challenges went far beyond finding a roof over his head.

During summer 2026, our Housing Team worked with colleagues in the Armed Forces Covenant programme and partner organisations to help Mark rebuild stability in his life.

Officers helped him understand the process, explained the different housing pathways available and talked through realistic options.

Their approach was about far more than processing a case. Through regular contact, meetings and practical guidance, they built trust and provided consistent support, helping ensure Mark did not face his situation alone.

Mark said:

"Losing my home affected every part of my life and I felt very alone. The support I received wasn't just about finding somewhere to live. Having people who took the time to listen, explain things clearly and keep in touch made a huge difference.

“They helped me understand my options and gave me hope that things could get better. Having a safe place to call home again has helped me start rebuilding my confidence and look towards the future."

The team supports people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping them access accommodation and wider support to rebuild stability in their lives. Officers also helped address concerns about Mark's wellbeing and connected him with specialist organisations supporting veterans.

They worked alongside organisations including SSAFA, Help for Heroes, The Veterans Charity, regimental associations and other organisations to coordinate support.

Through our Key4Me scheme, officers explored affordable housing options and helped remove practical barriers by providing support with rent in advance, a tenancy deposit and moving costs. They also carried out a financial assessment to make sure any housing option would be affordable and sustainable in the longer term.

Additional support included help with storage costs, food vouchers and a donated laptop. Our Armed Forces Programme Coordinator helped connect services, worked on Mark's behalf and coordinated specialist support.

Mark moved into suitable private rented accommodation. Financial barriers had been reduced, his wellbeing had improved and he was able to begin the next chapter of his life with greater stability and security.

By focusing on what Mark needed and working towards a shared goal, the team helped him move from homelessness and uncertainty to stability, security and a home of his own.

Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council's Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness, said:

"Behind every housing case is a person with their own story, challenges and hopes for the future. This case shows what can be achieved when we take the time to listen, understand individual circumstances and work together to find solutions.

"Veterans have given so much through their service. When they need support, it is important they know they do not have to face challenges alone. This story is a reminder that homelessness is not just about housing. It is about people. By working closely with partners and focusing on the person behind the circumstances, we can help people regain confidence, find stability and move forward with their lives.”

Where to get support

If you are worried about losing your home, are staying somewhere temporarily, or are struggling with housing costs, help is available.

See our contact details and how to get help 

Phone us 24 hours a day on 01305 221000

Our Housing Team can offer advice and support to residents facing homelessness or housing difficulties. Veterans and their families can also access specialist support through Dorset Council's Armed Forces Covenant programme, SSAFA, Help for Heroes and The Veterans Charity.

If you are concerned about a friend, neighbour or family member who may be at risk of homelessness, encourage them to seek help as early as possible. Getting support sooner can often prevent a situation from reaching crisis point.

If you need help when we are closed, call our out of hours service on 01305 221000.

If you are in danger or at risk of violence, call 999.

*Name changed to protect anonymity.