After months of careful planning, the East Hampshire Veterans Festival finally opened its doors on Friday at Petersfield’s Festival Hall.
The Hall was packed full of local and national organisations, charities, and individuals all united by a common purpose – to support veterans as they transition back into civilian life.
Hampshire has a proud military history, with many service families choosing to settle in East Hampshire even after their time in the forces has come to an end.
As a local MP, I have had the privilege of meeting many of these veterans in my surgeries over the years. Their experiences have highlighted the diverse challenges they face upon leaving military service.
For some, the transition involves securing housing, while others struggle to understand the benefits they are entitled to. Many veterans require assistance navigating the complexities of the NHS, and some simply need someone to talk to.
Time and again, I have been struck by the unique difficulties that arise when returning to "civvy street." Even with extensive preparation, the departure from the close knit military family can be a profound shock, often leaving even the most resilient individuals feeling unsettled.
Having personally employed a veteran, I understand the tough adjustments that come with leaving the armed forces, especially for those carrying injuries. The journey can feel isolating and overwhelming, which is why events like the Veterans Festival are so crucial.
The festival was designed to bring together all the available support services under one roof, making it easier for local veterans and their families to access the help they need. It was also an excellent opportunity for veterans to connect with one another, fostering new friendships and a sense of community.
The event featured a range of organisations, including Help for Heroes, SSAFA (the forces charity), Portsmouth Hospital, and the Veterans Welfare Group. While it is impossible to name every organisation that participated, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to the success of the festival. Meeting representatives from these dedicated charities was a pleasure, and their commitment to supporting veterans is truly commendable.
Of course, the festival would not have been possible without the efforts of a dedicated group of individuals. Special thanks go to Megan from my team, Jo and Hannah from East Hampshire District Council (EHDC), and Chris from the Royal British Legion. Their passion and hard work turned a small idea, discussed at a local armed forces stakeholder group, into a reality. Their enthusiasm and dedication were instrumental in bringing the festival to life.
For anybody who wasn’t able to attend, there are of course places and organisations that offer help such as The Forces Pension Society and Beyond the Wire. Contact details for all the organisations who attended are below:
Hounds for Heroes