NEW 'Drop In' Advice centre for veterans and families, in Shepton Mallet!

The children are finally back at school. On the first day , I missed them terribly, and just moped about in my jogging bottoms.The second day, I thrived. I baked scones, cleaned the house, wrote my blog, had a bubble bath, read a magazine and watched reality shows I'd recorded. By day three, I thought, I should really do something more useful with my time.

This week, I went along to the AGM of Shepton Mallet Branch of the Royal British Legion and was over the moon to be officially elected onto the committee, I also volunteered to become part of the local welfare team. At last, I have a purpose!

First call to action was attending the launch of a brand new 'pop in' advice centre for the East Somerset and Mendip region. It will be held at the Citizens Advice Bureau in Highfield House, SHAPE, Mendip district council offices, Shepton Mallet on the second Monday of every month from 10 – 12 noon.

The aim is that this new outreach service will enable members of the armed forces community, veterans and their families in the local area to access practical help and advice in the heart of the community. 

Over freshly baked cake and tea- Colin Joy, RBL Welfare Officer explained the service to me. “Whether it’s a matter of money worries, careers advice after service or a much-needed family break, our Legion Outreach can help. We help older veterans with home adaptations to enable them to live independent lives and also offer support to families caring for someone with dementia through the Legion’s Admiral Nurse Service. There are so many ways we can help, if you just ask. ”

Regular readers of my column and blog, will know, that in tougher times my family has accessed help and support from both the British Legion, and the CAB. So I am thrilled to be able to give something back by volunteering with this project.

My husband ,Wayne aka 'My Big Handyman' is also offering reduced rates for Veterans and their families – call him for anything from odd jobs , DIY and decorating to gardening on 07403 661577.
​
We will both be along at Shepton Mallet Library, on Saturday 14th October , representing the local branch of the British Legion at the 'Family Fun Day'. We shall be giving out some poppy themed goodies, at the event, celebrating libraries week. Starting at 10am, the library fun day will have a wide range of free kids craft workshops, activities, story telling, live demonstrations, and half price DVD rentals, as well as cakes & refreshments. It's sure to be a great day for young and old. Please come along and say hello!