Armed Forces Week: Veterans' stories highlight power of support and community
As Armed Forces Week is honoured across the UK, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board is not only paying its respects to all who serve or have served - including veterans, reservists, and their families but is highlighting the ongoing support many veterans need long after leaving the military.
From peer support and camaraderie to practical help navigating healthcare, veteran hubs and community services are providing a vital lifeline.
Personal stories by CTM veterans
From feeling alone and struggling after service, here are two personal stories by CTM veterans who found life-changing support, connection and hope through local veteran hubs - proving that the right help at the right time can rebuild lives.
Content notice: The experiences shared here may be upsetting; if you are a member of the Armed Forces community or a family member and feel affected, please remember that support is available and you are not alone.
“I felt at home already”
For one anonymous veteran, life after service brought unexpected challenges.
“When you come out of the forces, you’re sort of left on your own,” they said.
Years after leaving, they began experiencing recurring nightmares, anxiety and panic attacks later understood to be linked to PTSD. Seeking help proved difficult, with long waiting times adding to the pressure.
It wasn’t until they were introduced to a local veterans’ hub through services at Dewi Sant Hospital that things began to change.
“I got to the door and I was very apprehensive… but I felt at home already.”
Through Valley Veterans, they found something they had been missing for years: understanding, shared experience and connection.
“Military is brotherhood. You can talk and they’ll understand… it’s like being back with the forces.”
Now, after more than a year attending the hub, they say opening has not only helped their mental health but also strengthened relationships at home.
“I told my wife everything… she understands now.”
While acknowledging there is still a journey ahead, they say the support around them has made a life-changing difference.
“You have down days and good days… but I’m getting there.”
“It’s good to be alive”
For Dean, a veteran who attends hubs in both Merthyr and the Rhondda, the impact of support services has been life-saving.
Before finding help, Dean struggled with depression, alcohol misuse and undiagnosed PTSD. His personal life was breaking down, and he reached a point where he no longer wanted to go on.
“It got to a stage where I didn’t want to be around anymore,” he said.
After initially struggling to access support, he was eventually connected with Blind Veterans UK - a turning point he credits with saving his life.
“They turned me around… it’s a completely different life now,” he said. “It’s good to be alive thanks to these people.”
Through veteran networks and local hubs, Dean rebuilt his confidence and sense of purpose. He now volunteers, runs a veterans’ lunch club and actively supports others who may be feeling isolated.
“These hubs are a godsend,” he said. “You can talk to people who understand. Soldiers aren’t big hard men — they’re people, and they need to talk.”
Dean also highlights the importance of reaching out to others, recalling how he and fellow veterans make a point of approaching anyone sitting alone.
“Once you get them talking, they come out of themselves.”
Bringing support closer to home
As part of Armed Forces Week activity, we will have information stalls available across Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Prince Charles Hospital, Princess of Wales Hospital and Ysbyty Cwm Cynon Community Hospital (for visiting patients, relatives and carers)
Date: Thursday 25 June
Time: 10:00am - 3:00pm.
Staff, local third sector partners and several members of our veteran hubs will be on hand to:
- Encourage veterans to identify themselves in GP settings and the difference it could make
- Signpost to local support groups, community organisations, and services for families and carers
While the transition from military to civilian life can be challenging, the right support can make all the difference.
Letting a GP or healthcare professional know about military service can help ensure access to appropriate care and specialist support.
We have over 15 000 veterans living across Cwm Taf Morgannwg. This Armed Forces Week, we want our veterans to feel hopeful in saying “I have served” as you are never alone.
As said by our veterans:
- Talk - it helps
- Reach out - support is there
As one veteran simply put ... “Do it. Come in.”
Find out more on our website, where you can access resources and information designed to support veterans’ healthcare needs.
Cwm Taf Morgannwg NHS Charity is supporting this work as part of its commitment to improving experiences for patients, staff and communities, helping fund initiatives that go beyond core NHS provision. Learn more about the CTM NHS Charity here - Our Impact - Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board.
22/06/2026