Who we are

Trafford Veterans is a group of armed forces veterans, emergency service personnel and local volunteers, who all live in Trafford, Greater Manchester. The group was formed in 2015  after the two founding members, Royal Navy Veteran Claire Wright and British Army Veteran Chris Squires (both pictured, right), left the armed forces and faced a struggle with physical and mental injuries.

This affected their transition from the military back into their respective communities. Their experiences prompted them to provide peer support to other veterans and members of the community, so people would not feel alone.

What we do

We hold events and activities and encourage people to take part and share their hobbies and skills. This helps people to learn new things, meet new people and helps improve their confidence. It also provides volunteering opportunities and gives people a sense of purpose and tackles social isolation.

Our activities to date

  • Monthly breakfast club
  • Weekly model making and craft group
  • Allotment project
  • Minibus trips
  • Transit van to help with house moves and deliveries
  • Veterans hub and weekly warm room on Fridays

We do our best to support our fellow veterans through peer support. At our activities if someone needs help, we can then sign post or make referrals to partner agencies if required.

Why?

Many men and women risk their lives on a daily basis serving in the Armed Forces and emergency services. However, some end up having difficulties when re-integrating back into civilian life when their service comes to an end. Some just miss the banter and camaraderie. During their duties they may see and deal with several traumatic scenes.

Veterans are commonly affected in the following ways, among others:

  • They can face barriers such as finding employment, relationship breakdowns and financial issues
  • Physical or mental health conditions.
  • Finding and settling into a house and finding schools for children
  • Registering with a doctor or dentist
  • Integrating with members of their community

Royal Navy

Royal Marines

Army

Royal Air Force

Veterans

Emergency Services

Cadet Forces