British Army veteran commits suicide after council denies housing request

A British Army veteran, Rob Homans, committed suicide in August 2023 after being denied social housing by Worcester City Council. Homans, who had served two tours in Afghanistan, struggled to find stable housing following a difficult divorce.

Before his death, Homans expressed frustration to his mother about the lack of support he received. He was offered social housing in an area he described as drug-infested and pointed out that other veterans were also homeless. He questioned the fairness of the system, noting that a nearby hotel was housing refugees at taxpayer expense. He stated, "If they can house them, why can"t they house me temporarily till I get on my feet? I fought for this country and it means nothing."

Homans had a background as a promising footballer but chose to enlist in the military instead. His death has raised concerns about the treatment of veterans in the UK and the availability of support services for those in need.

For related coverage on similar situations, see recent developments in Madagascar.

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