He added: “If it goes well we become productive members of society, so that little bit of work early on will provide someone who goes into their community and thrives and makes it a better place.”
Brown was mayor of Morley between 2024 and 2025, and has captained the Leeds Rhinos Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRL) team to double national victory.
He now coaches young people in the PDRL after hanging up his own boots.
He said: “Britain remembers its veterans every November, but it must keep its promise to them and their families all year round.”
Cotton, who also serves as a Help for Heroes patron and campaigner, will join Brown as they hand the letter in at 10 Downing Street later.
He said: “Those who have served our country should be able to access the support that they need to live well after service.”
In the open letter, James Needham, CEO of Help for Heroes, said: “As a nation, we have made a promise through the Armed Forces Covenant, that no-one would be disadvantaged because they served our nation.
“Many veterans, particularly those injured while serving, are still denied the quality healthcare, financial security and support they need and deserve. We are failing to deliver on this promise.
“We can and must do better. As Prime Minister, you can lead a generational shift in how government supports our armed forces community – those currently serving, our veterans and their families.”
A government spokesperson said: “We will never forget the courage, bravery and sacrifice made by British servicemen and women for their country and we recognise there is more to do to better support them.
“That is why this government is making record investment in supports for veterans, including delivering the Valour Scheme, a £50m UK-wide support service for veterans and their families, helping to improve access to the right support when needed, a key commitment of the Veterans Strategy.”
