Pembrokeshire charity receives £2,500 to bring the county’s most vulnerable together, with a little help from Tesco

Pembrokeshire’s veterans, most vulnerable and disadvantaged will receive much needed support from The Veterans Community Gallery, a charity working to end social isolation.

The charity has received £2,500 in grants from Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme to fund hot meals and activities, as well as a minibus service for beneficiaries to attend events.

Beneficiaries will have the chance to meet new people and enjoy a hot meal in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock, ensuring they receive a balanced meal at least once a week.

The charity also offers a wraparound service with one-to-one welfare support and guidance, advocacy, and signposting.

CEO and founder, Barry John MBE, said: “We can’t thank the people of Pembrokeshire enough for their votes and Tesco for the grants.

“We work hard to create meaningful engagement, combat poor mental health and social isolation offering care and support to the ex-forces, reservists, and local communities.

“These grants from Tesco let us step it up another gear.

“Our users are often the most vulnerable in society for several reasons. Whether it be due to having mental health problems, living with dementia, learning disabilities and more, they are often marginalised because of these characteristics.

“Offering a meal every Tuesday might be the only time some of the people actually get out of the house and having our own minibus will enable us to pick up people who would otherwise not be able to commute, to meet new people, try new activities and get together with others in the same position.”

The VC Gallery was founded by Barry John MBE after his 24 years of service in the Army. Due to his background and involvement in mental health work, Barry realised the need in the community for a space for people to come and socialise.

The charity currently has over 70 volunteers, many of whom have been supported veterans or in disadvantaged situations themselves.

Claire de Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, said: “It warms my heart to know that there are people in the world who care so much about their community the way that Barry does.

“It is lovely to see that there is a space for everyone in Wales to socialise and meet new people.

“It can become lonely very quickly no matter what your circumstances so charities such as The VC Gallery are incredible in what they do, playing a crucial role in helping to alleviate loneliness and ensuring that no one has to face feeling alone.

“The VC Gallery has been voted for by Tesco customers in two different areas to receive the top grants available, which is testament to their work across Pembrokeshire.”

To find out more about Tesco Stronger Starts go to https://tescostrongerstarts.org.uk/