If you, or a family member, has served in the armed forces and are looking for help, advice or support on anything, this is for you!
We understand the value that reserve forces and ex-armed forces personnel bring to our local communities
To celebrate and support veterans and active‑duty armed forces in East Hampshire we've teamed up with Petersfield Royal British Legion and the Office of Damian Hinds MP, to organise and host the first East Hampshire Veterans Festival.
Vets Fest is a free to attend drop-in event being held on Friday 24 January 2025 at Petersfield Festival Hall, GU31 4EA, from 10am til 3pm.
Aimed at serving and former members of the armed forces community, including their families, the festival gives ex-service people an opportunity to meet with service charities and other veterans for advice, assistance and support.
From mental and physical health organisations to financial, housing and pension support, there will be a mix of national organisations and local East Hampshire based groups and charities who provide social care and support for veterans.
Supporting our armed forces community is a priority for EHDC
EHDC's Armed Force Champion and Royal Navy veteran, Councillor Phil Shaw, said: “Veterans need differing levels of support to help them make a life for themselves outside of the services.
"This festival gives them the chance to explore a range of information from national organisations, charities and local groups, providing support, advice, discussion, networking and friendship.
“It's a great opportunity for us all to show our appreciation for the value that the armed forces personnel and their families bring to our communities."
A veteran is someone who only needs to have completed one days service in either branch of the armed forces.
If you are part of an organisation that would like to have a stall at the event, or for more information, please contact our Armed Forces Officers – Joanne Utting and Hannah Robbins at communitynorth@easthants.gov.uk
To find out what support is available for our armed forces in East Hampshire, including clubs and networking opportunities please take a look at our website.