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Former forces personnel across Nottingham, Wrexham and Birmingham can now join like-minded veterans and enjoy a brew at The Café at Tesco, as local stores open their doors to their first Help for Heroes ‘café’.
As part of a small trial, the supermarket is working with the armed forces charity to offer veterans a chance to get together over complimentary beverages at the following stores:
- Tesco Nottingham Hucknall Extra, 10am – 12pm, launching on 19 May
- Tesco Wrexham Extra, 10am – 12pm, launching on 20 May
- Tesco Birmingham Springhill Superstore, 10am – 12pm, launching on 2 June
Tesco is the leading private sector employer of veterans and has its own Armed Forces Network, which acts as a support system and community for veterans, reservists, and military family members working within the company. And, in 2025, its Armed Forces Network agreed a three-year partnership with the Charity, to further support the armed forces community in various regions across the country.
The monthly cafés will be hosted by the Charity’s Community Development team. Dave Handley, who leads the team says he believes they have the potential to provide much-needed support for veterans in the surrounding areas.
He explained, “There is, clearly, a requirement for these cafés in these areas, as we know they have high numbers of veterans. It is heart-warming that Tesco has agreed to work with us to provide a venue and a drink for those interested in participating. We’re also keen to use the cafés as an opportunity to discuss any ideas people may have for improving community life for veterans and their families.
“It doesn’t matter how long you served, all veterans can come along, meet fellow veterans, enjoy a brew and a chat, and, if required, talk to specialists from the Charity who may be able to provide support in several areas. Tesco is the largest private employer of veterans, and its Armed Forces Network is a vibrant and supportive community. Together, we’ll deliver initiatives that will help build Armed Force communities and inspire the wider public to get involved.”
We look forward to seeing how local veterans benefit from this initiative.”
Chair - Tesco Armed Forces Network
Tesco Armed Forces Network Chair, Sabrina Lungo said, “Our network is proud to host the Charity at The Café, in our Hucknall, Wrexham and Hockley stores, giving veterans a place to make meaningful connections, get support, and catch up with other ex-service personnel over a coffee. The Charity provides vital support for the Armed Forces Community, and we look forward to seeing how local veterans benefit from this initiative.”
Ken Bellringer is an Ambassador for the Charity, living in Nottinghamshire. Ken served in the Army, before suffering catastrophic injuries whilst on patrol in Afghanistan. He understands how important this new initiative is for local veterans. He said, “I know from talking to other former servicemen and women, that, for some, isolation can be a big problem. They find it difficult to reach out for support and can feel wider society doesn't really understand them. That's why having a safe, comfortable environment, where they can get together with like-minded people, is important.
It doesn't matter how long you served, when or where, you'll be made to feel welcome."
Help for Heroes Ambassador
"It's really positive news that Tesco is opening its doors to veterans, especially in the Nottingham area. I'd like to encourage any former members of the armed forces, and their family members, to come along. Sometimes getting together with other people on a regular basis for a cup of tea and a chat can make a big difference to your mental and physical health.
"I know the Community Development team is really keen to harness the skills and experience of our veterans, to help contribute to a thriving community. It doesn't matter how long you served, when or where, you'll be made to feel welcome."