In Armed Forces Week, Clwyd West MS and Chair of the Cross Party Group on the Armed Forces and Cadets,  Darren Millar, has applauded a programme offering effective support for veterans, their families and carers in Wales after learning about their latest work during a meeting this week.

Darren visited Adferiad Recovery's Head Quarters in Colwyn Bay to discuss the Change Step veteran's programme.

Change Step enables anyone who has been a member of the UK Armed Forces, full-time or reserve, to access vital support services and tackle serious stress and related issues.

Its team of peer mentors use their own experiences to help fellow veterans and their loved ones confront challenges in their lives and manage their journeys of recovery.

During the visit Darren met with Geraint Jones, Director of Change Step, and Clive Wolfendale, Chair of Adferiad Recovery.

Speaking afterwards, he said:

“Life can be extremely challenging for veterans as they return to civilian life and we owe it to them to ensure they have access to the very best services and support.

“Change Step is certainly delivering on that front, with research showing that every pound spent on Change Step results in around £7 in social benefits – including better wellbeing, reduced loneliness and more settled home life for veterans, and savings to health services.

“The team is doing phenomenal work and as we celebrate our Armed Forces this week, it is also important that we also appreciate and applaud the team at Change Step for all they are doing to support our veterans and their families.

“it was great to meet with Geraint and Clive to discuss the latest work of Change Step and I personally thank them and the team for all they are doing.”

Armed Forces Week is a national celebration of our Armed Forces organised by the Ministry of Defence. This year, celebrations have been taking place from the 21 June until 27 June,  with Armed Forces Day on the 26 June.