Johnnie Johnson Housing uses housing network to improve services for veterans

August 24, 2026

Veterans did not always have access to housing services that recognised and responded to their specific needs. 

What was the situation?

Johnnie Johnson Housing – a not-for-profit housing association in the north of England – identified a need to improve housing for veterans, and housing bodies’ overall awareness of issues faced by the Armed Forces community. Housing providers may not always be aware of the challenges they face, or understand how they can support veterans.

What made this Covenant disadvantage?

Veterans can experience challenges due to Service that differ from similar civilians, such as not meeting local connection criteria. If housing providers have limited awareness of these issues, they may be less able to identify the needs of veterans and support them appropriately. This can make it more challenging for veterans to access suitable housing support compared to civilians.

What was done to help?

Johnnie Johnson Housing worked with other housing providers, local authorities, and Service charities to improve housing support for veterans. They identified opportunities to improve their services; share good practice; and learn from local and national speakers on Armed Forces issues. They also employ a network of champions who meet up to share good practice, and disseminate it across their organisations.

In addition, the group developed e-learning resources to improve staff awareness of Armed Forces issues; created a local online portal to signpost key services that veterans can access; dedicated five new-build properties for eligible veterans; and made veterans a high-priority needs category for social housing.

What was the outcome?

Housing providers were able to increase their awareness and understanding of the needs of the Armed Forces community. Veterans also had improved access to housing support, information, and services. Organisations became equipped to identify and respond to the needs of veterans.

Wider information

You can read more widely about:

• Covenant disadvantage and special provision (the two types of case study in this database)
• Covenant support for the Armed Forces community: Housing

Disclaimer: This case study is part of the Covenant case study database. MOD has developed the database to illustrate examples of good practice for organisations in scope of the Covenant. It serves as a guide for effective Covenant delivery, offering practical insights into achieving fairness for the Armed Forces community. Delivery of the Covenant may vary across the UK. This means there is no guarantee the solution outlined in this case study is available in your area.