Age Cymru Powys is asking the Powys community to get behind them and make a pledge to spread the word about their new services, to help the charity identify and support older Veterans.
Many older Veterans in Powys are missing out on money and specialist Veterans support that is rightfully theirs. Many services have moved online, but if Veterans are unfamiliar with the internet, this can also leave them cut off from help.
Gail Colbridge, Chief Officer of Age Cymru Powys, explains why the new Veterans services are particularly needed in Powys: “Older Veterans in Powys tell us that accessing Veteran-specific services and social activities can be challenging, particularly for those living with disabilities or mobility issues, due to the long journeys and limited transport.
“Many are not aware of entitlements, resulting in financial hardship.”
“That’s why Age Cymru Powys is proud to be funded by and working with The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust for the Veterans MOT and Camaraderie Club. We offer home visits and a telephone social group, to ensure that no Powys Veterans are forgotten.”
The charity is asking local people to tell their family, friends, colleagues and neighbours who have military connections about the two new services for Powys Veterans:
Camaraderie Club – a new social telephone club for Veterans aged 50+. Regular group calls to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and be part of a great community. No technology or equipment is needed – just a landline or mobile phone.
Veterans MOT – A new ‘Check-Up’ service for Veterans aged 65+. Covering all aspects of getting older, supporting Veterans to enjoy later life. Help with the Cost-of-Living; health and wellbeing; support at home; future planning; connections to Veterans services.
Gavin, 58, in Llangammarch Wells, said about the Camaraderie Club: "I enjoy the camaraderie and shared experiences with the other Veterans. It's great to have a space to talk about topics of interest and things that only other Veterans can understand, without even having to leave the house."
Meirion Davies, 83, and his wife Anne, 76, live in Meifod. Both have a military background. They were very pleased to share the outcome of their recent Veterans MOT: “We had two visits from Gwyneth – her knowledge of Veterans’ services, allowances, housing and wellbeing was extremely helpful to myself and my husband, her help has been exceptional.”
How can you help spread the word to Veterans living in Powys?
Tell people you know who have military connections about the new Veterans services
Share the leaflets and posters in your village hall, noticeboard, or local shop
Volunteer with Age Cymru Powys to support Veterans in your community
Include a description of our Veterans services in your newsletter
Book a talk by Gwyneth, ACP Veterans Officer, for your social group
Gwyneth Barrowclough, Veterans Officer at Age Cymru Powys, is a Veteran herself and is leading both Veterans services for the charity. Gwyneth is urging local Veterans to get in touch. She said: “You have nothing to lose by having a chat Veteran-to-Veteran. One phone call could make it worthwhile. You served our country, now it’s our turn to ensure you have the support you need in your later life.”
Who is a ‘Veteran’ in the UK? Anyone who has served for at least one day in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve) or Merchant Mariners who have seen duty on legally defined military operations.