Community times at the VCP in Nuneaton
We have had a busy start to our week, with visits from both Member of Parliament Jodie Gosling and local councillor Nicky King. Great to have them pop in to see the great work we do for our Veteran Community.
High Tea at Mary Anns Hospice to commemorate VE Day
Our Executive Director, Colin Cape, attended this fabulous event at Mary Ann’s Hospice in Nuneaton to commemorate VE Day 2026.
Buckingham Palace Garden Party 2026
A lovely time was had at this year’s Buckingham Palace Garden Party 2026 by our treasurer Peter Knight.
Run with purpose for Veterans mental health
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/clypv4lpr3wo
If you can support Scotty on his journey, it will spur him along. He is known for his crazy charity challenges, but this one is simply outstanding!
Case Study: SC – Veteran with Complex Needs
Overview
SC, a former RAF Police Dog Handler, was evicted from his Warwick home on 16th September. No reason was given in court, and it’s unclear if bailiffs have enforced the order.
Personal Circumstances
- SC lives with eight German Shepherds, all registered as empathy dogs. A Warwick Council mental health nurse has confirmed their importance to his well-being.
- He has voiced suicidal thoughts linked to the loss of any of his dogs.
- SC suffers from PTSD and chronic back pain but has not sought medical help due to poor mental health.
- He is supported by Op Courage and the local CMHT.
- He is financially stable, pays bills on time, and has a good tenancy record.
- He avoids calls from withheld numbers.
Support Efforts
- VCP held meetings with Warwick District Housing, CMHT, and Op Courage.
- SC declined housing offers unless his dogs could stay with him.
- Warwick and Nuneaton councils stated they cannot house a veteran with eight dogs.
- VCP referred SC’s mental health concerns to CMHT and Op Courage. Housing support could not be provided.
Warwickshire ChangeMaker 2025
Warwickshire ChangeMakers 2025: Honouring Local Heroes
Over 100 outstanding individuals were honoured this week at Warwickshire ChangeMakers 2025—a celebration recognising those across the county who dedicate themselves to making a lasting, positive impact in their communities.
Among this year’s inspiring award recipients was Jason Hester, one of our incredible volunteers at the Veterans Contact Point (VCP). Jason was recognised for his unwavering commitment, compassion, and tireless support for veterans in Warwickshire.
His contribution has been invaluable—from providing one-to-one support to veterans in need to helping develop and deliver essential services that improve lives. Jason’s dedication, empathy, and community spirit truly embody what it means to be a ChangeMaker.
We are extremely proud of all of our volunteers, whose collective efforts make the VCP a vital and trusted support hub. But today, we take a moment to shine a spotlight on Jason and celebrate the well-deserved recognition of his hard work.
Congratulations, Jason – and thank you for everything you do.
Continued Support from Provincial Grand Lodge of Warwickshire
Grateful Thanks to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Warwickshire
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Warwickshire for their generous donation to Veterans Contact Point.
Their continued support makes a real difference in the lives of our local veterans and their families. Every penny donated goes directly toward the services and assistance we provide—whether it’s mental health support, housing guidance, welfare advice, or simply a safe space to connect with others who understand.
Partnerships like this are vital in helping us continue our mission, and we are truly thankful for the Provincial Grand Lodge’s ongoing commitment to those who have served.
Thank you for standing with our veterans.
VCP team are now MHFA’s
Following an intensive two-day course with MHFA England, the team are now proud to be MHFA-qualified.
