AN ARMED Forces veteran from Poole who founded a charity to support veterans finding a place to live has been recognised by the Prime Minister. 

David Wood, who founded the charity Helping Homeless Veterans UK, has received a Points of Life award from Boris Johnson. 

Since founding the charity in September 2019, David has helped almost 200 veterans find a home. 

David is the 1897th person to receive the Prime Minister’s daily Points of Light award, which was first launched in April 2014 to recognise outstanding individuals making a difference where they live. 

Read more: Homeless veterans to benefit from accommodation in Winton

Congratulating David on his award, Leo Docherty, Minister for Defence, People and Veterans, said: “Congratulations to David on this incredible achievement.  

“His dedication to supporting ex-service personnel through accommodation and employment opportunities has ensured that veterans across the UK can maximise their skills from service in civilian life.” 

Conor Burns, MP for Bournemouth West, said: “I am delighted to learn David has been recognised in this way.  

“His selfless work in our community supporting those who served our country is inspiring.

“I look forward to visiting and congratulating David myself over the coming weeks." 

Read more: Dave Wood is nominated for Dorset Hero Award

Tobias Ellwood, MP for Bournemouth East and Chair of the Defence Select Committee, said: “David is an incredibly worthy recipient of this award.  

“His work has made a difference to the life of veterans and his fundraising will continue a great legacy for those in the community for years to come.” 

On receiving the award, David said: "I am simply overwhelmed to be a recipient of the Points of Light award in recognition of my voluntary work with our charity Helping Homeless Veterans UK.  

“I am surrounded by an amazing team of dedicated individuals who give up their time to help those who need us in their time of need and it is great to see our charity receiving the recognition it so deserves after such a difficult time through the Covid-19 pandemic. Thank you."

Read more: Bournemouth veterans charity to host Big Sleep In event

The charity is currently converting empty properties into flats to provide accommodation.

Recently David has been collaborating with a local garage to support veterans who are struggling with finding employment opportunities.