For the approximately 2.1 million veterans currently living in the UK, accessing suitable accommodation when moving into civilian life is a key factor for their future wellbeing. In recognition of this need, the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust (the Trust), on behalf of the Office for Veteran’s Affairs (OVA), launched the Reducing Veteran Homelessness Programme, running from April 2023 to the end of 2025. This Programme aims to reduce veteran homelessness and provide sustainable supported housing through: (i) Op FORTITUDE, a centralised referral pathway system for veterans facing or at risk of homelessness, designed to help them access stable housing and comprehensive support services, and (ii) grant-funded projects, which aim to increase housing capacity, provide specialised support (e.g. therapeutic services), and foster community integration for veterans.  

Alma Economics was commissioned by the Trust to evaluate the impact of the Reducing Veteran Homelessness Programme. Our evaluation began with a scoping phase, which involved a desk-based review and scoping interviews with grant holders, resulting in the development of a comprehensive, interactive Theory of Change (ToC) that maps how each project is expected to drive change and create long-term impact. This was followed by a process evaluation, which assessed the effectiveness of the Programme’s delivery by engaging with grant holders, delivery organisations, frontline staff, and beneficiaries. Our team also conducted an impact evaluation, using a mixed-methods approach to assess the Programme’s impact across key areas such as employment, mental and physical health, housing needs, and wellbeing. Finally, we undertook an economic evaluation of the Programme, conducting a Cost Benefit Analysis to estimate the social return on investment. 

While the Programme was initially scheduled to run for two years, it has since been extended until March 2026. The evaluation will also span several years to assess both immediate and longer-term impacts. Our report summarises the findings from the evaluation’s first year, providing valuable insights into how the Reducing Veteran Homelessness Programme is supporting veterans. 

➥ You can find the report here.