(Image: Supplied)
Continued funding from a military charity is helping a Darlington veterans’ centre support former service personnel as they rebuild their lives.
Clervaux Trust runs The Fold’s Veterans’ Activity Days with support from the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF).
Darren joined the Army at 17 and served for 10 years in the Royal Artillery before benefiting from the programme.
A serious knee injury during his service led to multiple operations and lasting pain.
He also developed complex PTSD and ADHD, leaving him withdrawn and without direction.
Darren said: "On arrival at the centre you immediately feel welcomed.
"It is a place where I feel safe, relaxed and valued, and where I can share experiences with fellow veterans."
For three years, Darren and his wife have attended weekly sessions at The Fold, building friendships within a supportive veterans’ and families’ community.
He particularly enjoys working in the centre’s garden, growing plants and vegetables, learning skills and making friends.
Darren said: "As a veteran, I now have a sense of belonging.
"I socially engage with others and feel comfortable, part of a family.
"My life has been turned around."
The Fold Family Centre in North Yorkshire supports veterans, their families and the wider community through activities that build connections, skills and confidence.
The ABF has supported Clervaux Trust for eight years, most recently awarding £6,000 in June to keep the Veterans’ Activity Days running.
Brigadier (Ret'd) Peter Monteith, chief operating officer at the Army Benevolent Fund, said: "Strong social connections, purposeful activity and a sense of belonging are vital for wellbeing.
"Clervaux Trust has created a welcoming environment at The Fold where veterans can reconnect with others, learn new skills and regain confidence.
"Our regular funding helps ensure more members of the Army family can benefit from the support and community that the project provides."
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The National Garden Scheme has helped fund the ABF’s support by raising more than £800,000 since 2010 through public openings of private gardens.
Since 2018, the charity has awarded Clervaux Trust several grants to develop The Fold.
The Veterans’ Activity Days programme expects to support 150 Army veterans and their families this year.