A PIONEERING website has been launched to help war veterans become more independent.

The unique Veterans Information Portal went live at the Royal British Legion Pop-in Centre, in High Street, Colchester.

Essex is the first county to roll out the scheme, which is supported by Essex Civilian Military Partnership Board - backed by Essex County Council - Colchester Garrison, The Royal British Legion Essex and every local authority in the county.

Its aim is to provide employment, education and training, information on health, welfare, finance and housing.

Users will also be given service and product discounts.

Derrick Louis, chairman of the Essex Civil Military Partnership Board, said: “It has always been very difficult to tell just how many Armed Forces veterans are living in Essex and how they are faring.

“This causes difficulties for the public sector, knowing what services might be needed and how we can best support them.

“As a member of the Army Reserve myself, I know of many people who have needed assistance when rejoining ‘civvy street’ and I really hope this new portal will reach out to them so they can find the support they need and which they deserve.”

Norman Hume, Chair of Essex County Council, added: “There is a huge array of organisations, businesses, charities and councils which offer support to veterans but they are often unaware of what is on their doorstep.

“So it is a great honour to unveil this web portal which brings all this information together and to know Essex is leading the way in the care it offers to these people who have sacrificed so much to keep us safe.”

Colonel Gary Wilkinson CBE, Commander of Colchester Garrison, said: “This is a fantastic example of the civilian community in Essex recognising and supporting the needs of former military personnel.

“The veteran community is diverse, encompassing former soldiers in their twenties who have served in Afghanistan to the Second World War generation, and each person has individual requirements.“

Melvin Swann, The Royal British Legion Essex County Chairman, said: “The Veterans Portal will help local armed forces veterans to identify services that are available to them and will help local partners to identify where best to target their support to former service people.”

To access the portal, go to theviptree.co.uk.