Veterans In Communities

🇬🇧 D-Day Anniversary Parade – Join Us 🇬🇧

A reminder and a bit more info for anyone who may not have seen the original post – this is a great opportunity to come together and pay our respects.

We’ve been invited to take part in a D-Day Anniversary procession through Accrington, alongside the Royal British Legion, Cadets, and local organisations. The parade will be led by a WWII motorbike and a lone piper, making it a special and fitting tribute.

It will finish at the Accrington Pals Memorial Garden, where a short commemoration will take place to honour those who served and sacrificed.

📍 Meet: VIC Shop, Accrington Arndale (BB5 1PL)
🕚 Saturday 06.06.26, 1100hrs
➡️ Moving to Barnes Street for approx. 1145–1200
🕧 Step-off: 1215hrs

If you’re able to attend, we’d really encourage you to come along, even at short notice. Let’s show a strong turnout and represent the veteran community with pride.

🇬🇧 Hope to see as many of you there as possible 🇬🇧

📢 CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS!

Complete a survey about your experiences of welfare services for veterans* and be in with a chance to win a £50 voucher!

The University of Salford is leading a new research project that aims to look at how Ministry of Defence (MoD) welfare services for veterans could be enhanced through trauma-informed practice. There is a growing recognition of the value trauma-informed approaches can bring to service delivery across many areas of government. In 2023, an independent review of welfare services for veterans recommended the MoD adopt trauma-informed practice. Trauma‑informed practice helps staff understand how past trauma can affect people’s wellbeing, trust, and sense of safety when using services. It aims to enhance the accessibility and overall quality of services by fostering safe, respectful, and culturally sensitive environments in which individuals feel confident and comfortable returning for support. Many other organisations and government departments are also looking at how trauma-informed practice can improve the experiences of service users and support staff well-being.

Researchers from the University of Salford are seeking UK Armed Forces veterans to complete a survey about their experience of welfare services and understanding of trauma. This survey is the first stage of the project and the insights it provides will help establish a baseline of evidence and shape recommendations for future service improvements. The survey responses come to us at the University, and the MOD has no access to the raw data or any identifying details.

Who Can Take Part?

You are eligible to participate if you:

Have served in the UK Armed Forces; and
Have sought or received support from MoD welfare services for veterans within the last ten (10) years.

What’s Involved?

The study involves a short online survey (approx. 20–25 minutes), mostly multiple‑choice with some optional open questions. You can also volunteer for a follow-up interview. The survey includes a prize draw: first prize £50 shopping voucher, second prize £25 shopping voucher. Those invited to take part in a follow-up interview will receive a £25 voucher as a thank you for their time.

How do I participate?

A link to further information and to complete the survey is here:

https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/salford/understanding-experiences-of-mod-welfare-services-for-veterans-

💙 Supporting a Life-Saving Local Cause 💙

At Veterans in Communities (VIC), we’re proud to highlight the incredible work of one of our local organisations, Community Defibs for Rossendale (Team Rossendale CFR).

This amazing team plays a vital role across our Valley, not only responding to serious and life-threatening medical emergencies, but also working tirelessly within the community to raise awareness and support for their life-saving mission 🚑

They are out and about at many local events, helping to educate and make a real difference, and they need our support!

👉 To learn more about their work and stay updated, visit their website:
https://rossendalefirstresponders.org.uk

📅 Upcoming Events:
🍛 Charity Event at The Kashmir, Rawtenstall
In support of Community Defibrillators for Rossendale, in association with 1969 (Rossendale) Squadron Air Cadets.

⚠️ Spaces are limited, be sure to book early!
🌸 Open Garden Weekend – Whitewell Bottom
📅 6th & 7th June

A much-loved annual event helping raise vital funds and awareness
Please consider attending and sharing these events with friends and family to help support this truly impactful and essential cause 🙌