Transforming justice support for veterans

In 2025, we transformed veteran support across the justice system. Op NOVA achieved full national coverage in England, NOVA Scotland built a formal referral pathway with Police Scotland, and our Justice Services team expanded partnerships in prisons, including a groundbreaking contract at the UK’s first all-electric green prison. Together, these programmes delivered thousands of completed journeys, improved mental health, and reduced reoffending, creating safer communities and brighter futures for veterans.

Op NOVA: national coverage

Op NOVA achieved a historic milestone by securing the North West Prison Estate contract, completing its NHS-funded roll-out across England. This ensures veterans now receive integrated support at every stage of the justice process, from community referrals to prison engagement. In the past year alone, 1,284 veterans finished their Op NOVA journey, regaining stability and decreasing crisis behaviours. 87% said NOVA supported them in their time of need, and 90% rated caseworker advice as helpful or very helpful.

“When I got arrested, I was in such a dark place…
But Op NOVA helped me make the changes I needed to rebuild my life. They really cared and didn’t judge me.”
Rik, Op NOVA client

NOVA Scotland: police partnership

NOVA Scotland strengthened its partnership with Police Scotland by establishing a formal referral pathway for vulnerable veterans and contributing to the Scottish Veterans Commissioner’s report “Veterans and the Law.” This collaboration guarantees prompt support for those in need. The results are impressive: 76% of veterans made progress towards stable housing, 100% experienced improvements in mental health, and 76% advanced towards living a crime-free life.

Justice services: prison innovation

Our Justice Services team expanded its prison partnerships with Ingeus and Mitie. At HMP Holme House, our collaboration with Ingeus through the Creating Future Opportunities (CFO) Evolution Programme enables individuals to prepare for life after custody by addressing their wellbeing, housing, health, education, and employment needs. We work closely with Ingeus to deliver tailored interventions that foster confidence, resilience, and practical skills. Additionally, our new ten-year contract at the Mitie-run HMP Millsike, the UK’s first fully electric green prison, positions us as a leader in sustainable rehabilitation and offers a chance to innovate through creativity, technology, and sustainable practices.

Impact: lives changed

Across all our justice services, the results speak volumes: thousands of veterans have been supported, their mental health has improved, and reoffending rates have been reduced. Veterans are regaining confidence, pride, and self-worth, all key protective factors against reoffending, while communities benefit from safer, more positive reintegration.

 

 

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