Robert Cook (pictured), a driver with Stagecoach East and a former Coldstream Guards serviceman, has taken part in a unique initiative to support homeless military veterans across the UK.
Robert, alongside fellow veteran Rowland Willmore Cole, braved a ‘sleep out’ under the open sky to draw attention to the plight of an estimated 6,000 former service members who are without a roof over their heads.
The initiative is part of the Great Tommy Sleep Out campaign orchestrated by Royal British Legion Industries and seeks to shed light on the struggles faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life. The campaign has seen success this year, raising upwards of £750,000 to provide support in the form of accommodation, welfare, and employment.
Robert’s personal commitment has garnered over £1,100, contributing to a collective total of £1,600 raised by himself and Rowland, with donations continuing to pour in.
“I am so proud to do my bit to help people who have given their all to serve and protect our country, and who are now facing the consequences of that decision,” Robert says. “Nobody would suggest that sleeping out for one night was comparable to being homeless, but I hope our effort will raise awareness of this crucial issue. It is easy to become disillusioned and think that nothing can be done to help veterans, but we can all do our bit, so it is good to make a positive step to help out.”
Stagecoach East has shown support for its veteran employees, fostering a Veterans Network to empower its staff. The company’s dedication to the Armed Forces community has been recognised with a Silver Award from the Armed Forces Covenant.
“We all owe a debt of gratitude to those who put themselves forward to defend our freedoms and way of living, and so we are very proud of Robert for taking on this challenge,” comments Darren Roe, Managing Director of Stagecoach East.
Donations can still be made to support Robert’s efforts here.
