Remembrance can be a meaningful but emotional time for the Armed Forces Community, as it often brings back memories of their service, the service of family members, bonds formed, and sacrifices made along the way. It’s a day to reflect and a chance to honour memories.
The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) has secured funds from Greenwich Hospital to support Improving Lives Plymouth with a grant to enable a group of RN and RM veterans, who have been identified in collaboration with the Defence Medical Welfare Service (DMWS) to pay their respects by laying wreaths for fallen comrades, followed by an opportunity to remember together over lunch.
Many veterans avoided attending previous Remembrance events as they do not want to go alone, they feel that they would struggle to be at a service due to their own experiences in service and find it very overwhelming. Through talking with the veterans supported by Improving Lives Plymouth, a group will gather to support Remembrance – with attendees standing as a group to observe the service on November 10th 2024, with staff and volunteers on hand to provide emotional support and follow-up support should this be needed.
As part of this initiative, Improving Lives Plymouth is committed to ensuring that all veterans and their family members can attend events without the barrier of transportation. To facilitate this, the organisation will arrange taxis for those who may not have access to private transport. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone can participate and feel included, fostering a sense of community and support among attendees.
To make the experience as seamless as possible, each veteran and family member invited will receive comprehensive instructions detailing where to meet the group, strategically located away from the main arena. This is designed to avoid any potential stress or confusion, allowing participants to join the gathering with ease and comfort.
RNRMC and Improving Lives Plymouth are united by a shared mission: to provide crucial support for veterans who have experienced or may be at risk of social isolation. Recognising the emotional challenges that days like Remembrance Day can bring. Improving Lives Plymouth offer compassionate care and foster a sense of community, striving to create an environment where veterans feel supported, valued, and remembered, particularly on days that can stir deep emotions and painful memories.
As a long-established organisation, working within the city of Plymouth and the surrounding area, Improving Lives Plymouth have an excellent track record of delivering services and developing new ones to meet the needs of individuals and community and voluntary organisations.
If you feel like you could benefit from help, don't hesitate to reach out. Whether you're struggling with feelings of loneliness, emotional distress, or simply need someone to talk to, there are resources available to support you.
Visit www.improvinglivesplymouth.org.uk or call Improving Lives Plymouth on 01752 201766.
