A SALISBURY homelessness charity is helping former servicemen rebuild their lives by restoring historic military sites in Malta.

Ten British veterans have just returned from the Mediterranean island after taking part in ALABARÉ’s latest Heritage That Heals programme, a two-week deployment combining heritage conservation with mental health support and rehabilitation.

The veterans, including residents supported by the charity’s Homes for Veterans service in Salisbury, spent the trip restoring historic military structures at Fort Delimara and an outpost at Dingli alongside Heritage Malta and the Armed Forces of Malta.

But organisers say the project is about far more than bricks and mortar.

For many taking part, it was a chance to rediscover confidence, purpose and friendship after struggling with homelessness, poor mental health and isolation.

Malta Minister for National Heritage with some of the veterans. (Picture: ALABARÉ)

One of those veterans was former Royal Navy chef Jimmy Flurrey, who turned to ALABARÉ in Salisbury shortly before Christmas after experiencing depression, alcohol misuse and housing problems.

Speaking about the trip, Jimmy said: “The biggest shock for me [during the visit] was how well I got on with everyone.

“I’ve spent the last three years isolating myself, and working with a team again brought out a different side of me. It’s been amazing. Being around the military family again has been really nice.

“At the start of the project, you’re thinking ‘there’s a lot to take on’, and then once it’s finished, you see what’s been done.

“Everyone’s been working hard, and concurrently, so you can see what’s being done, and I think everyone’s been impressed with it as well. A new passion has been ignited in me.”

The Australian High Commission. (Picture: ALABARÉ)

The project also included cultural visits and ANZAC Day commemorations, where veterans laid a wreath on behalf of ALABARÉ.

According to the charity, 69% of participants reported improved mental wellbeing following the programme.

Simon Frith, ALABARÉ’s partnerships lead, said: “This experience has been life-changing. It’s given them renewed purpose and camaraderie that many would not have felt since leaving the forces.

“Together, we’ve restored confidence, connection, and hope for ten previously homeless veterans and will help them towards breaking the cycle of homelessness.”