A NEW outreach service has been launched in the town aimed at supporting soldiers and veterans.

The Royal British Legion has opened the drop-in centre at The Gateway on Sankey Street.

It opens every Tuesday from 10am to 1pm, offering information and advice to serving members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and families.

Denise Barber, RBL’s advice and information officer, runs the service.

She said: “I’m looking forward to starting my outreach work in Warrington, which is part of the Legion’s mission to bring our services closer to those who need it most.

“I’ll be available for face to face meetings to discuss any issues, so please do take the opportunity to call in if you need advice on housing support, welfare, debt management plus much more.”

In addition to promoting services offered by the RBL, users can also be connected to other welfare services for health, employment and housing.

Other charities like Combat Stress and Regular Forces Employment Association will be advertised there.

It is one of 16 centres that will open nationwide.

A free helpline has also been launched offering the services of trained advisers.

Gillian McKinnon, RBL manager for Cheshire and Merseyside, said: “Both nationally and locally, the Legion recognises that the profile of our beneficiaries is constantly changing and that we must continue to improve our services to reflect that need.

“Being able to pick up a phone, looking online for information or coming along to our office in Warrington where they can talk face to face, represents major progress.

“My team is totally committed to providing the best possible service for the service community The RBL phone service is now available on 0808 802 8080, or go to britishlegion.org.uk for more information.