Mental health support for veterans at The Beacon #MHAW16

This is The Beacon centre for Veterans in North Yorkshire.Peter, 60, moved to The Beacon in 2014. He spent a lot of his childhood years in care and became homeless at the age of 15. He went on to join the Armed Forces in a bid to improve his living situation, and spent nine years travelling the world.

After leaving the army and going on to hold several different roles, he became jobless and his mental health began to deteriorate. He attempted suicide after prolonged stress and anxiety.

Since arriving at The Beacon, Peter has been in receipt of counselling and has been supported to regain his self-esteem and feel more comfortable in group settings.

He enjoys poetry, fishing and woodwork, and has become an Ambassador for forces charity, Walking with the Wounded. He continues to receive ongoing support from the specialist team at The Beacon, who are helping him rebuild his confidence and engage in more social activities at scheme to enhance Peter’s social connectedness.

Read more from our Head of Supported Housing, Helen Gore, who has blogged about our group activities and resilience capital and importance of relationships for mental wellbeing.

Are you a veteran in need of housing support? Contact SPACES on 01748 833797.