Following the success of the inaugural event, we hosted our second Veterans Drop-In event on Thursday 18th June 2026 at Foley Meir Football Club. It brought together veterans, support organisations and members of the local community for a morning of meaningful conversations, new connections and valuable opportunities…

The event is designed to support veterans, reservists, serving personnel and cadets. It provides attendees with the chance to discover services, explore opportunities and learn more about the support available to them across Staffordshire and beyond.

More than 50 people attended the event throughout the morning and there was a welcoming and engaging atmosphere from the off.

A key objective of the event was to help break down barriers that can sometimes prevent people from accessing support or exploring new opportunities. Attendees were encouraged to take part in simple activities. These helped break the ice and make introductions easier.

For many people, attending an event like this can feel overwhelming, particularly if they’re unsure what support they need or what questions to ask.

However, the informal and friendly environment meant that visitors could connect with organisations, share experiences and gain information that could help them move forward with confidence.

The event wasn’t simply about distributing information. It was about creating meaningful connections and opportunities that could make a real difference to people’s lives.

The event welcomed representatives from a wide range of organisations. Each brought their own expertise and opportunities for attendees to explore.

Organisations represented included:

• 58 Signal Squadron Association
• Citizens Advice North Staffs
• Choices CIC
• Connect 2 Combat Homelessness (C2CH)
• Connect to Work
• Horizons Coaching
• JET Team
• Macari Foundation
• Man Time
• Men Rebuilding Men
• Royal British Legion
• Staffordshire Bushcraft CIC
• Stobbsie Fitness
• The Battle Back Centre
• The Wellbeing College & NHS
• Veteran Support Network CIC
• Veterans Champion & Senior Occupational Therapist
• West Midland Reserve Forces and Cadets Association (RFCA)

The variety of organisations highlighted the wide range of support available. They covered areas such as wellbeing, employment, housing, fitness, personal development, social connection and rehabilitation.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the day was seeing new relationships develop between attendees and organisations.

Throughout the event, conversations flowed naturally as people shared experiences, exchanged ideas and discovered common interests. The positive atmosphere demonstrated just how valuable it can be to bring a diverse range of organisations and individuals together under one roof.

The event also welcomed a special visitor, Mrs Josie Jones. Josie is recognised as the longest-serving committee member of the Longton Armed Forces Parade. Her continued dedication to supporting the Armed Forces community was warmly received by everyone who attended.

Events like this are only possible thanks to the support and generosity of local organisations and volunteers.

Walk Talk Action would like to extend special thanks to Meir Kitchen for kindly providing sandwiches and light refreshments for attendees throughout the morning. Their support certainly contributed to the welcoming environment.

Thanks also go to Steve and the team at Foley Meir Football Club for providing the venue. And, of course, all the organisations, volunteers and attendees who contributed to the success of the event.

The Veterans Drop-In event once again highlighted the importance of creating spaces where people can connect and access support.

There was something valuable for everyone. People had the opportunity to seek guidance, discover new opportunities and meet like-minded people.

Walk Talk Action is committed to supporting the Armed Forces community and helping people take positive steps towards their goals.

One conversation and one connection at a time.