The initiative was set up more than three years ago when Moving Forces contacted the charity asking if they provide a military veterans programme that kept them active, as we all as providing them with a form of socialising with people who have experienced similar things to them.
The programme has since grown from strength to strength, starting off with just three participants to now stand at more than 50.
Programme Leader, Peter Bradshaw, shared his thoughts on how he thinks the programmes helps veterans.
“To civilians Remembrance Day can be related to remembering those who lost their lives in World War One and Two, but to these veterans it is about so much more,” he said.
“It can be a tough time of the year for veterans, they remember friends and family they’ve lost. It can be a very challenging.”
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the military veterans were able to stay connected through quizzes, group chats and online watch-along sessions.
Since returning to in-person sessions after lockdown restrictions were eased, they have participated in seven-a-side tournaments and continue to plan new charity ventures.
One participant said: “The mental health side of this programme has really saved my life, as well as it being great for our social and physical lives.”
Another participant commented: “We cannot believe that we get to train on the first team indoor pitch every week.
“It is good to get out and have a laugh with the boys.”
As part of Remembrance Day, the Military Veteran participants remembered those who they have lost and who have served.
New veterans are always welcomed to the sessions on a Tuesday night 8pm-9pm at the City Football Academy Indoor Pitch.
