Model groups bring veterans together

An initiative supporting Armed Forces veterans and ex-Emergency Services personnel is celebrating a significant milestone across Telford and Wrekin. The local Models for Heroes groups recently marked two years of offering friendship and focus through model making.

The scheme started at Leegomery Community Centre in October 2023 and has since grown into a thriving network. It offers support to those who have served their country and local communities.

The programme has expanded beyond its beginnings in Leegomery to include regular sessions in St Georges and a newly formed group at The Hub on the Hill in Sutton Hill.

The sessions are possible thanks to support from local borough councillors, Town and Parish Councils, and funding from the Councillors’ Pride Fund.

Councillor Paul Davis, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for the Armed Forces, spoke about the success.

“These Models for Heroes sessions are a shining example of how we can support our Armed Forces community in meaningful and lasting ways,” he said. “Through model making, veterans and ex-emergency personnel are finding friendship, focus, and a renewed sense of purpose.”

He added: “But this is also about a lot more than just making models; it’s about rebuilding confidence, creating friendships, and offering a safe space for those who’ve given so much to our communities. We’re incredibly proud of how far the groups have come in just two years.”

The groups meet on the:

First and third Tuesday of each month at Leegomery Community Centre

Second and fourth Tuesday of each month at the Parish Centre St Georges

First and third Wednesday of each month at The Hub on the Hill, Sutton Hill

The Models for Heroes sessions are part of Telford & Wrekin Council’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant. This includes other initiatives like the Christopher Turley Armed Forces Community Hub in Dawley and regular community cafés, art classes, and brunches across the borough.