Jason is an Army veteran living at our supported housing scheme in Exeter, which provides accommodation and tailored support for military veterans.
After initially serving in the Army Reserve for six years, Jason Howard went on to undertake a variety of full-time reserve roles, including driving, stores management and security duties.
Following the breakdown of his marriage, Jason experienced homelessness and was forced to live in his car.
The stress and uncertainty of the situation took a serious toll on his health, resulting in a mild heart attack and a hospital stay.
While receiving treatment, Jason was referred to support services and was eventually introduced to LiveWest’s veterans' housing project.
Jason’s story highlights the National Housing Federation’s Supported Housing Week campaign, celebrating the life-changing impact of these services.
Jason said: “I ended up being a driver, stores, a general dog's body really, and security on the gates.
”I was living in my car but after about a week and a half the stress caused a mild heart attack, so I ended up in hospital. The hospital got in touch with the council.
“The emergency housing officer couldn't do anything at the time, but the mental health team got involved and put me in touch with someone else from the council.
”Because it had snowed, they said they would get me somewhere quickly for the weekend as I was living in my car. Then someone asked if I was a veteran and recommended this project. I came here for an interview the next day and moved in the day after.”
Since moving into the scheme in December 2024, Jason has received support alongside other veterans who have faced similar experiences.
Over that time, he has rebuilt his confidence, improved his wellbeing and developed the skills needed to live independently. With support from the team, he is now preparing for the next chapter of his life, including finding employment and securing a home of his own.
Jason said: “Because it's all veterans here, you get to talk to other veterans who have been through similar things. The staff understand our experiences, and we all get on well and help each other.
”LiveWest has been brilliant. They are there whenever you have a problem and usually sort it out really quickly. You can always go and have a chat.
“Some people who haven't been in the military don't always understand our humour, but here you can have a bit of banter and people get it. Before I came here, I didn't really know much about the support available for veterans.
Counselling and practical support have helped Jason rebuild his confidence and prepare for a move into independent living.
He added: ”The support workers taught me everything, from managing my emotions to rebuilding my confidence and getting my life back on track.
“When I first arrived, I was in a bad way, but through the counselling and support I've received, I'm now ready to move on to independent living.“
Across the country, these services help people overcome challenges such as homelessness and poor health, providing safe homes and support to help them live independently.
If you would like to find out more about our supported housing service, please click here.