A NEW Armed Forces Hub is being launched in Torpoint next week to bring military charities, community groups and public services together and make it easier for veterans, serving personnel and military families to access support.

The new multi-agency hub will launch at Torpoint Library on Tuesday, September 8, from 10am to noon, with ten organisations already confirmed to attend and more expected to join.

The initiative is being delivered by Veterans Regroup CIC in partnership with Torpoint Town Council and Team Raleigh CIC.

It aims to provide a regular and accessible meeting place for Torpoint’s Armed Forces Community, reflecting the town’s strong links with the Royal Navy and neighbouring HMS Raleigh.

Rather than people having to work out which organisation they need and then contact services individually, the hub will bring different forms of support together under one roof.

Visitors will be able to have informal and confidential conversations about issues including housing, finances, employment, health and wellbeing.

The hub will also provide an opportunity for members of the Armed Forces Community to meet others, enjoy a brew and some camaraderie while finding out what support is available locally.

Jane Jiwa, managing director of Veterans Regroup CIC, said accessing support should not depend on people already knowing which organisation to contact.

“Our hubs make that journey simpler by bringing organisations together in one welcoming, accessible place,” she said.

“People can come in for a brew and some camaraderie, have an informal conversation and, if they need support, we can help connect them directly with the right people.”

She added that the hub would also benefit the organisations involved by allowing them to work more closely together.

“Just as importantly, organisations can work alongside each other, share expertise and make referrals, reducing the risk of people falling through gaps between services,” she said.

The Torpoint hub forms part of a growing network of multi-agency Armed Forces Hubs being developed by Veterans Regroup CIC across Cornwall.

The network operates around a “No Wrong Door” approach, designed to ensure people can access appropriate help even if they are unsure where to begin.

Jiwa said Torpoint was a natural location for the initiative because of its strong Armed Forces identity.

“We want the community to have this support on its doorstep,” she said. “Having 10 organisations already committed to the launch shows what can be achieved through genuine partnership working and a shared commitment to our Armed Forces Community.”

The hub will welcome veterans, serving personnel, reservists and military family members.

There is no requirement to make an appointment, and people do not need to have a specific problem or support need to attend.

Following the launch, the Torpoint Armed Forces Hub will be held at Torpoint Library from 10am to noon on the second Tuesday of every month, excluding school holidays.

The launch takes place at Torpoint Library and Information Service in Fore Street, Torpoint, PL11 2AG, on Tuesday, September 8.

For more information, contact Veterans Regroup CIC by emailing [email protected] or calling 01872 703309.