A GRANT of £20,000 from the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) is helping ALABARÉ expand an outdoor programme that is changing the lives of veterans.

The funding supports ALABARÉ’s Boots on the Ground programme, which focuses on improving mental health, physical fitness, emotional resilience and social connection.

Boots on the Ground is open to veterans living in supported accommodation and those in the wider community who are experiencing homelessness.

Activities include hiking, gardening, kayaking and bushcraft, and participants can also take part in ironmongery and heritage projects.

Some of this work takes place overseas and helps protect important community assets.

Participants took part in a fishing trip. (Photo: ALABARÉ)

The programme is already making a clear difference, and improvements have been seen across all activities delivered.

One veteran who has benefited is Gavin who arrived at ALABARÉ’s Homes for Veterans after becoming homeless.

At the time, he was addicted to heroin and had lost contact with his daughters and mother.

He engaged with the programme after expressing an interest in learning to cook, and just six months later his life looks very different.

Reflecting on the impact of the programme, Gavin said: “It’s an amazing experience to be in nature so often.

“I was dead two years ago, in a coma, so when I realised, I could still do that sort of stuff, it gave me a massive boost. This was the foundation for me. It’s inspired me to do a lot more, and I feel safe being part of the activities.”

Gavin enjoys the outdoors! (Photo: ALABARÉ)

Over the last financial year, more than 200 Boots on the Ground sessions were delivered across the south west and Wales, and 80% of participants reported an improvement in their wellbeing.

The programme is inspired by the NHS Five Ways to Wellbeing, which include connecting with others, being active, learning new skills, giving back and focusing on the present.

The ABF has highlighted the partnership on its social media channels, describing ALABARÉ as a “valued partner charity”.

Manager of Boots on the Ground at ALABARÉ Karen Langley said: “I’ve seen some huge transformations in our clients, and they’ve gained new skills that will ultimately support their journey towards independence and future employment.”

Karen Langley (Photo: ALABARE)

With the ABF grant in place, ALABARÉ hopes to expand the programme further.

More activities are planned and sessions may also be opened to young people and homeless adults across the charity’s wider services.

For more information, visit www.alabare.co.uk