The Poppy Factory’s Navigator service is now open to self-referrals — meaning veterans can sign up directly, without needing a professional referral first.
Navigator is for veterans who would like to return to work but are facing obstacles that make it difficult to progress. The service helps them boost health, wellbeing, confidence and motivation through personalised support, connection with local services and meaningful activities. Focusing on one thing at a time helps to break down barriers in a manageable way.
The service is currently available to veterans in South Wales, Cheshire and Merseyside and the West Midlands.
Veteran Simon Pigott was supported by the Navigator service
Empowering veterans to come forward
Previously, referrals had to be made by a professional supporting a veteran — but opening up to self-referral means that veterans can take the first step on their own terms.
This change reflects what we already know: many veterans benefit from being able to access support when they recognise they need it, without waiting for someone else to act.
Navigator offers up to six months of tailored, one-to-one support and helps veterans build confidence, connect with others and move towards personal goals, including progressing to employment support when ready.
Veterans like Simon have experienced first-hand the impact of the Navigator service. Reflecting on his journey, he said:
“I realised that I didn’t have a future if I didn’t change things. People in my kind of situation don’t ask for help. My advice is to give it a chance and reach out, because it’s made a massive difference to my life.”
Paul supports veterans in South Wales
Paul Roberts, Navigator in South Wales said: “To any veterans out there looking for support I’d encourage you to come forward, we can provide you with opportunities to get into work, find you a voluntary role, or give you some sort of structure back in your lives that you might have been looking for.”
Positive outcomes
Last year registrations for the service doubled with 83 veterans being referred for support. 49% of veterans achieved their primary goals, including financial stability, community and a sense of purpose – 14% went on to receive support through our employment service.
Debbie Boughtflower, Director of Operations, said: “We know that taking the first step can be the hardest part. By opening Navigator to self-referrals, we’re making it easier for veterans to get support when they feel ready. This change is about empowering veterans to take control of their future, with the right guidance alongside them.”
The Navigator service is available in South Wales, Cheshire and Merseyside and West Midlands.