A brand new group has been set up to combat loneliness for Veterans in Powys

A group of Veterans across Powys have been taking part in a brand new initiative called the ‘Camaraderie Club’.

The social group, run by Age Cymru Powys, takes place on the telephone every Wednesday from 2pm to 3pm.

All Veterans are welcome to enjoy great banter and share interests with other Veterans, without even having to leave the house.

Gwyneth Davies, Veterans Officer from the charity, explained the difference it’s making.

“I’ve been working with ex-service personnel for four years at Age Cymru Powys and we wanted to support our Veterans with loneliness and try and combat the problem,” she said.

“There are events for Veterans in Powys but not everybody can get to them or join in due to disabilities, mobility issues or transport. So we are grateful for funding from The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust to connect Veterans aged 50+ together.

“As a Veteran myself, I started the group to assist primarily older Veterans who do not have the opportunity to talk or socialise with other Veterans, but who miss the camaraderie. It’s been very successful in bringing Veterans in Powys together from the Army, Navy and Airforce, but we would love to have more Veterans call in and join us, either regularly or just occasionally when they fancy a chat.

“One member served over 30 years in the Royal Navy and was a submariner. He had some great stories to tell and the whole group were very interested and had a good laugh together about the tales. Another member had served in the more recent troubles including Northern Ireland, Falklands, Bosnia and the Gulf war. This was very interesting to the older members of the group.”

Robert, 76, from Forden, said: “The Camaraderie Club really brightens up my day hearing from the guys and I just love listening to the interesting stories – it’s good old banter with those who know the score.”

Gwyneth added: “For some Veterans, loneliness can cause real distress. And that’s where we’re asking ex-service personnel to help, as many of our Veterans would love to have someone with an Armed Forces background visit them at home for a cup of tea and a chat. Please get in touch with me if you’d like to show your support for our Powys Veterans, as we can match you with a Veteran with similar interests and background for a perfect fit.”

If you would like to join the Camaraderie Club, or volunteer with a Veteran in Powys, please contact Gwyneth Davies, Veterans Officer.

Age Cymru Powys, Old Warehouse, Parkers Lane, Newtown, Powys (SY16 2LT)

Call: 01686 623707