We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news — Gateshead Council’s funding bid to the Veteran’s Capital Housing Fund has been successful, with the full £346,600 awarded to refurbish Bibby House - a Gateshead based supported housing scheme for veterans.
Bibby House is a vital lifeline for former members of the Armed Forces who are rebuilding their lives after service. With five bed spaces, it offers not just a place to stay, but a safe and supportive environment where individuals can heal, grow, and move towards independent living.
This investment will enable significant improvements to be made to the building including:
- Creation of a fully accessible independent living flat downstairs with access to laundry and bathing facilities
- Improved outdoor space including new meeting area, storage facilities and raised planting areas
- Addition of en-suite facilities to upstairs bedrooms and improved ventilation and lighting
- Upgrading of staff and visitor bathrooms
- Addition of a multi-functional space for veterans to access.
- These improvements will ensure that the service promotes improved health and wellbeing and continues to meet the needs of veterans well into the future.
A Foundation for Change
Every person who comes through the doors of Bibby House brings with them a unique story, but they all share one thing: a need for somewhere safe, stable and supportive to build a life after service. This funding will help to achieve that — and more.
Julie Blench, Project Lead at Bibby House said:
“Here at Bibby House, the staff team were delighted with the news that we have successfully been awarded the funds for the refurbishment. It means that we will be able to offer, not just the opportunity, tools, and support to change, but an environment where change can begin to flourish”
Councillor Stuart Green, Armed Forces Champion for Gateshead Council had this to say:
"I welcome this great news of the successful bid, which will enhance the home environment and provide extra facilities."
We’re deeply grateful to Gateshead Council for their ongoing partnership and to the Veteran’s Capital Housing Fund for recognising the importance of investing in services like Bibby House. We look forward to sharing updates as the refurbishment progresses and to continuing our work to support veterans across the North East.
