Founded in 2012, Veterans in Communities (VIC) does what it says on the tin. Our aim is to enable ex-services and emergency services personnel and families to be part of their local community. To return, belong and prosper within and as a part of it.
Veterans in Communities helps break down barriers between the military and civilian worlds, all of our activities and projects are open to members of the local communities. It’s not about being separate to the community, but sharing skills, experiences and knowledge, working towards shared goals of building resilience and wellbeing for all.
Where we Operate in
VIC operate across a number of areas and locations in East Lancashire, Preston, and parts of Greater Manchester.
How we help
Those in need are identified through outreach drop-in services across our area of benefit, as well as working in partnership with statutory services and other specialist organisations from the third sector. Partnerships are crucial to working with VIC, as we don’t believe in duplicating services or providing support that is best provided by others.
Service users become members of VIC, working with a volunteer or staff member to identify particular issues they are facing,
then formulate solutions. VIC provides a safe, sharing and understanding environment for members. The camaraderie for which the Armed Forces is so famous, is always present. Volunteers design, develop and deliver our activities, which are overseen by a small staff team.
Our services
Utilising our veteran-to-veteran peer support pathway where help and support is given to veterans by veterans, VIC
offer:-
• Social coffee mornings/afternoons
• Art/craft groups
• Veterans in Production and allotment projects
• VIC Choir
• Volunteering, training and learning
• A programme of walks and trips
• Outdoor activities
• Involvement in community projects.
• The VIC Centre is available for drop-in, peer support, a chat, information and guidance
VIC does not seek to provide therapy, but instead offers services, activities and support that are therapeutic to those participating. Our offer aims to
• reduce social isolation,
• improve self-confidence and self-esteem,
• support improved mental and physical well-being,
• develop new or existing skills and social and peer networks.
• promote team building, peer support and a sense of belonging.
The Impact
Independent research carried out by Anglian Ruskin University identified numerous ways in which the activities and groups facilitated by VIC benefited our members.
The research concluded that “the combined impacts around learning, wellbeing and community can result in transformative effects for VIC members. These transformations included new friends and support networks, a renewed sense of purpose and enjoyment in life, and a transformation in sense of self-outlook and behaviour, which then improve relationships outside VIC.”
Those who have served in any of the branches of the Armed Forces and Blue Light Services, and their families. Our activities are also accessible to those from the wider community.