Op FORTITUDE (sometimes called Operation Fortitude) is a UK government‑backed support pathway specifically for veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. It is a centralised referral and support service designed to help ex‑service personnel:
who are homeless, or
at risk of becoming homeless
It acts as a single point of contact to get veterans into the right housing and support quickly, rather than them having to navigate councils, charities, and services on their own.
What it actually does
Op FORTITUDE:
Works one‑to‑one with individual veterans
Helps them either:
stay in their current accommodation, or
move into suitable housing, including veteran‑specific supported housing
Links veterans to a network of housing providers, charities, and local authorities
Can also signpost to wider support, such as health, employment, or community services where these affect housing stability
Who it’s for
You can use Op FORTITUDE if you are:
- A UK Armed Forces veteran (any service, regular or reserve)
- Single adults (it supports individuals rather than family housing)
- Homeless or at risk of homelessness (for example, sofa‑surfing, facing eviction, rough sleeping)
This is explicitly confirmed by government and delivery partners.
How referrals work
Referrals can be made:
- Directly by the veteran themselves (self‑referral)
- By:
- Local authorities
- Veteran charities (e.g. Royal British Legion)
- Homelessness services
- HM Prison & Probation Service
- Defence Transition Services
Even though it’s called a “referral”, veterans do not need a professional to refer them.
Who runs and funds Op FORTITUDE
- Funded by: The Armed Forces Covenant Fund / Office for Veterans’ Affairs
- Delivered by: Riverside Group (a social housing provider)
- Works in partnership with veteran housing providers and charities across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
It launched nationally in July 2023 and is intended to be a core part of the UK’s strategy to end veteran homelessness.
How to contact Op FORTITUDE
- Freephone: 0800 952 0774
- Online: GOV.UK Op FORTITUDE page [gov.uk]
In one sentence
Op FORTITUDE is the UK’s national “front door” for homeless veterans — a single, specialist route that helps ex‑service personnel secure housing and avoid falling through the cracks.