Op CONNECT
Supporting veterans in the North East, North West and Scotland to get active and involved in their communities
Creating new community connections
We know ex-service personnel can find it tough to connect after they’ve served in the military. That’s why we’ve developed Op CONNECT, giving ex-Forces personnel based in the North East, North West and Scotland the chance to meet with veterans, get active and get involved in their communities.
Veterans can take part in different activities throughout the year. Each activity is designed to tackle social exclusion, and support physical health, and mental health and well-being.
Without Walking With The Wounded's programmes and activities in Scotland, I probably wouldn't be here today. I plan to continue attending activities every chance I get to keep my mental health on a level par.
Robert, veteran and Forces to Fishing participant
Activities veterans are a part of:
Wellness Walks
Spending time in nature can make a real difference with mental health problems such as anxiety, stress and depression. Our Wellness Walks are an opportunity for veterans to meet on a monthly basis, keeping them connected to others, and encouraging physical exercise in the outdoors. We tailor the walks to suit the capabilities of the group.
Forces to Fishing Angling
Research shows fishing can have a positive effect on improving the mental health of veterans, including on conditions such as PTSD. For veterans finding it hard to integrate, the Veterans Angling project is helping decrease social isolation and improve the mental and physical health and wellbeing in the veteran community.
WWTW Social Hub
WWTW Social Hub provides a safe and supportive space for veterans to visit and spend time with others. Available every fortnight and facilitated at our regional hub locations, veterans who are at risk of social isolation can visit, talk to other veterans, and get advice and guidance from our partners on mental health, employment and social care and welfare.
Veterans' Mess
Following the same model as our Social Hub, WWTW Veterans' Mess will provide the space and opportunity for veterans to visit, meet other veterans and get informal but professional advice and guidance from our partners. Veterans' Mess is open once a month on a weekday evening, facilitated at our WWTW regional hub locations where possible.
Programmes of Support
Walking With The Wounded designs tailored programmes of support that inspire change and save jobs, homes, relationships and lives.
Giving veterans better tools to manage their needs
Our Support Care Coordination is bespoke for each person, and designed to develop self-worth, and empower clients to act independently.
Mental health support for veterans that improves lives
Our Head Start programme improves wellbeing and empowers veterans with mild to moderately severe mental health difficulties.
Supporting veterans into meaningful jobs and employment
Our highly trained and experienced employment advisors enable veterans to build confidence, find employment and rebuild their lives.