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A new monthly drop-in session is being launched for veterans in the St Athan area. Hosted by the St Athan Veterans’ hub and supported by Help for Heroes, it will provide an opportunity for veterans to get together for a cup of tea, in a supportive environment, and connect with like-minded people.
Chris Hoad is the local Community Builder and said, “We’ve been having discussions with Derek Roberts and the team at the St Athan Veterans’ Hub and the work they are doing is just the sort of thing we want to support.
“I’m attending the monthly sessions, to help explore how we can harness skills, experience and knowledge that veterans have to offer, in order to have a positive impact on the whole community.”
The veterans’ hub has been running for eight months now and is led by two local veterans Derek Roberts and Rob Bugden. Rob is also supported by the Very Seriously Injured (VSI) team. The pair have been instrumental in organising social and volunteering activities for veterans, creating a memorial garden at St Athan Church and helping to give local veterans a voice in their local community.
We want to make sure that all veterans and their families have access to the right support."
Veteran
Derek, who served in the Welsh Guards said, “We want to make sure that all veterans and their families have access to the right support. We’ve are getting great attendance and support from the local Armed Forces Community, Charities and Government agencies and we’re keen to build on the momentum. It’s great to have the support of Chris and the team, to help us make a difference.”
Latest figures from the Charity show that in 2024-25 they received 11% more requests for help from people in Wales compared to the previous year.
11% more requests between 2024-25 for help from people in Wales, compared to previous year.
The new monthly sessions are open to all local veterans and their families and are held at St Athan Golf Club 10am on the last Saturday of the Month. For more details contact chris.hoad@helpforheroes.org.uk