Worcester-based armed forces veterans' charity Stepway has presented a Recognition Award to the City Council to acknowledge the support provided since it was founded in 2019.
Stepway supports veterans in civilian life by providing drop-in centres, a skills programme, community projects and a range of other initiatives.
The charity's founders visited the Guildhall to present the award to the City Council's Leaders and Managing Director, in recognition of the funding, advice and practical support the local authority has provided.
Stepway Founders Dawn Turner and Perminder Kundi said: "We are pleased to present this Recognition Award to Worcester City Council to say thank you for all their support from the time the charity started and throughout the current pandemic.
"From the time we launched in June 2019 the Council has provided us with funding and advice, alongside direct support to the veteran community with housing issues, education, and employment opportunities. We are especially grateful that the Council has provided us with a room in the Guildhall, where we deliver our seven-step civilian skills programme for veterans.
"The City Council's support means that we can continue to help all veterans in civilian life."
City Council Deputy Leader Councillor Adrian Gregson said: "The City Council has been a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant – a promise to provide fair treatment to those who serve or who have served in the armed forces and to their families – since 2012.
"We are committed to helping veterans to lead fulfilling lives in our city and our work with Stepway helps enrich the range of services already available to them."
Stepway was launched in 2019 and offers a range of services to veterans, including:
- Drop-in centres with counselling and mentoring available if required
- A Sense of Purpose: The seven-step civilian skills program - a 40-hour course focused on mental health awareness and basic life skills
- The Veterans' Hub based at The Trinity, Worcester
- Community projects that give veterans the chance to learn about nature, grow their own vegetables or fruits, take part in other outdoor activities, and breathe in the clean air.
