James Frith MP urges government to place new veterans' centre in Bury North

Tuesday, 13 May 2025 08:39

By David Murphy

Labour MP James Frith has called on the government to establish one of its new VALOUR Centres in Bury North, arguing the area’s rich military heritage makes it an ideal location to serve the Armed Forces community.

James Frith, the Labour Member of Parliament for Bury North, has written to Veterans Minister Al Carns asking that one of the newly announced VALOUR Centres be based in the constituency. The centres form part of a national network pledged by the Labour government to deliver on the Armed Forces Covenant and enhance local support services for veterans and their families.

The VALOUR programme will establish dedicated hubs offering help with mental health, housing, employment and wider welfare support, tailored to those who have served in the Armed Forces.

Frith said Bury’s military legacy, including its links to the Lancashire Fusiliers, made it a strong candidate to host one of the centres.

“Bury has always had a deep connection to our Armed Forces,” said Mr Frith. “From the historic service of the Lancashire Fusiliers – who earned six Victoria Crosses before breakfast at Gallipoli – to the many veterans and families who call Bury home today, our community has a proud record of service and sacrifice.”

He added: “A VALOUR Centre here would honour that legacy and provide vital, joined-up support for those who’ve served.”

In his letter to the Veterans Minister, Frith highlighted how the centre could unify local services, improve delivery of the Armed Forces Covenant, and offer a welcoming and practical base for veterans.

“This is about backing our veterans in a meaningful way – ensuring they have a space to access services, connect with one another, and get the support they need,” he wrote. “I would be delighted to welcome the Minister to Bury North to see first-hand how this could work for our local community.”

The VALOUR initiative is one part of the Labour government’s wider plans to support the Armed Forces community. According to official announcements, the centres will act as localised hubs across the UK, improving access to services including mental health support, housing advice, and job coaching. Each centre will be tailored to local needs and will work with councils, charities and healthcare providers.