AN ARMY veteran said he feels “optimistic” after meeting with Suella Braverman at a charity event.
The Home Secretary and MP for Fareham paid a visit to Westbury Manor Museum on Friday to hear from veterans.
Those in attendance at the event asked Mrs Braverman about the government’s support for veterans during the cost-of-living crisis, and how they can be supported after serving.
David Pratt, 64, who served in the Army for 40 years, was pleased the Home Secretary decided to attend.
He said: “We believe that change has to be government-led.
“The fact Suella Braverman has come to Fareham is good and I am led to believe it came from the Census, because for the first time, it asked who has served in the Armed Forces.
“She noted all the points and said she will action them.
“There’s a whole different system for the people leaving the Army now, so from that, I feel optimistic for the people following from us.
“All the fighting veterans are doing for this is having an effect.”
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Tristan Cooper, regional lead for Help for Heroes, said Braverman was “very engaged.”
He said: “The veterans who attended today’s event are just people that have real-life examples of the difficulties they face.
“So for Suella Braverman to hear real-life difficulties is really important. The conversation was good.
“It’s about small gains and hopefully this will make a difference. I was impressed that she spent 40 minutes listening to veterans, she was very engaged.”
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