The Bridge for Heroes reminiscing sessions have been central to many of our beneficiary’s recovery. Formal and informal sessions have been held on a regular basis each week. Richard Appleby takes time out from his job bi-monthly to share some of his collection of military artefacts which always instigate memories and talk of how things were for many of our veteran’s

This is the organisations response to all issues relating to those armed forces veterans who are Wounded, Injured and Sick who are either imminently or immediately homeless.  

Our main work concentrates on supporting those clients who require respite, rest and recuperation to improve their mental wellbeing, and to re-adjust into civilian life. The Bridge for Heroes supports beneficiaries with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, loneliness and feelings of failure or guilt, and PTSD.  These are carried out through one to one sessions and a full evaluation of the client’s needs.

The Charity uses a holistic approach, offering in-house therapy sessions, activities, and supporting clients through life changes.  The success of this approach can be evidenced by the comments of one of our beneficiaries, who took part in cooking activities: “While busy baking I felt I could join in conversations with other cooks.  After a few sessions I began opening up about things that were bothering me.  It felt safe with no pressure to begin, continue or end a conversation.  If I wanted to stop talking, or gather my thoughts, I could easily be distracted with what needed to be cooked, or wash up!” 

The project provides 2 half day cookery workshops focusing on cooking healthy options, meals on a budget and learning new skills in storing and reheating different food types. A fundamentally important experience of sharing food with fellow comrades. Also this encompasses the monthly Veterans Breakfasts.

The charities main facility offers a broad range of Welfare support including Loneliness, Social Isolation, Homeless issues, Sucidal prevention, Suppport to manage finances and any other welfare issues as they arise.

The Bridge Centre has been used for a number of social events including BBQ’s, centenary days and Oktoberfest. These events enable beneficiaries, volunteers and staff to relax, reminisce and share stories with like-mind people in the safe haven of the Bridge centre. 

Other social events have included bowling, cinema visits and attending shows at the King’s Lynn corn exchange including music acts and the Christmas pantomime.