Sam’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and finding a new sense of purpose after years of dedicated military service.
Joanne finds the right ingredients for her family to thrive
Joanne was just 17¾ years old when she joined the Army Reserves. After meeting her husband Carl, a serving soldier, Joanne later left the Reserves to support him throughout his military career. With support from The Poppy Factory’s Families Employment Service, Joanne was able to rebuild her confidence and find a role that works around family life.
Helping Rawnie build new foundations
Rawnie was a teenager when she served in Afghanistan. Later, a veterinary career also took its toll. Employment support helped her find a new job at B&Q in South Wales.
Martin’s journey from service to support
After 20 years in the Army, Jack Jackson struggled to find motivation in civilian life. Our Navigator service helped him secure a volunteer role at a boxing gym. Now Jack is giving back to the club through a tough walking challenge.
Jack’s tough hiking challenge to give back to boxing gym
After 20 years in the Army, Jack Jackson struggled to find motivation in civilian life. Our Navigator service helped him secure a volunteer role at a boxing gym. Now Jack is giving back to the club through a tough walking challenge.
Helping Rob to carve out a different future
After years struggling with alcohol, Army veteran Rob McLaughlin, 40, went through rehabilitation and found himself socially isolated. Steady support helped Rob to begin reconnecting with his community in Warrington and build the confidence to plan his own woodworking business.
Harry finds a renewed sense of purpose
Harry joined the Army in 2008 when he was 18 years old, serving in Canada and Afghanistan. After returning from Afghanistan, Harry lost a limb during a training exercise which resulted in medical discharge. Harry was initially helped by Blesma, the limbless veterans charity, which put him in touch with The Poppy Factory for employment support.
Helping Anna fight for her family’s future
After her husband developed a debilitating illness, mum Anna needed to go back to work to support their family life. The Ripple Pond gave her the support network she had been missing, and The Poppy Factory helped to further boost her confidence and find the flexibility and job satisfaction she needed.
Michelle makes progress on path to becoming a paramedic
Former Army medic Michelle experienced personal grief and struggled with her mental health. Following NHS treatment, she registered for employment support from The Poppy Factory and secured funding for training through the Army Benevolent Fund. Now she’s on the path to becoming a qualified paramedic working with Yorkshire Ambulance Service.
Simon is back on track for career and creative success
After PTSD put his life in danger, Army veteran Simon Garland Lo asked for help. Now he’s flourishing with a new railway job with while enjoying newfound success through his hobby as a photographer.
A new service to give veterans a Fighting Chance
Boxing champion and movie star Big Joe Egan spoke about his own mental health challenges and how the sport changed his life as he launched a new project to help veterans as part of the Thrive Together programme.
Helping Janey to make a fresh start
Janey had been going through a difficult break-up with her partner, a former soldier, when her work also became very stressful. The Ripple Pond offered the support network she urgently needed and The Poppy Factory helped her rebuild her confidence enough to move forward. Now Janey is thriving in a new job and embracing new challenges.