VETERANS from all different walks of life came together recently to speak about improving the return to civilian life.

Hosted by St Helens South & Whiston MP, Marie Rimmer, the St Helens Chamber event was sparked by the tragic death of local soldier, Wesley McDonnell, who took his own life in 2020.

Bringing together representatives from local veteran groups, No Duff, Standing Tall Foundation and Saints Veteran Community, the participants raised the difficulties they faced in the lead-up to leaving the armed forces and the problems they had returning to civilian life.

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St Helens Star: The event was held at St Helens Chamber to listen to members of veteran groupsThe event was held at St Helens Chamber to listen to members of veteran groups (Image: Marie Rimmer MP)

Marie Rimmer MP said: “For far too long our veterans have been let down. They put their lives on the line for our country, yet after they leave the armed forces they are forgotten about. It needs to change.

“I was delighted to host local veterans so they can be at the heart of this change.

"I want veterans’ voices to be heard. Labour in government will look to put right the wrongs of the past and make sure that our brave veterans are valued and accepted.”

St Helens Star: Marie Rimmer MP with members of Community Saints groupMarie Rimmer MP with members of Community Saints group (Image: Marie Rimmer MP)

Commending the event, Jo Swift, of Community Saints, said that the words of each veteran were listened to as ideas passed around the table.

The main topics discussed were around improving mental health services for veterans and looking to prevent problems rising upon leaving the forces.

This was spoken as a matter of urgency as ex-service members often suffer from addiction, homelessness, and mental health problems when trying to integrate back into civilian ship. 

St Helens Star: Dean Owen (left) with Marie Rimmer and No Duff representativesDean Owen (left) with Marie Rimmer and No Duff representatives (Image: Marie Rimmer MP)

Dean Owen, CEO of No Duff UK, added: “On behalf of No Duff UK I would like to say thank you to Marie Rimmer MP and her team for arranging a meeting with the many veteran organisations throughout St Helens.

2A lot was discussed about the progressive ways in which to help not only the older generation of veterans but also service leavers of the future.

"I hope that some of the ideas put forward can take place [from the] enjoyable constructive meeting.”