Decorators give new lease of life to Doncaster veteran support shop

Decorators have been busy transforming a town centre shop into a brand-new veteran’s support centre.
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Helpers from armed forces charity SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) have completely revamped the shop on Priory Walk, Doncaster, making it a fit-for purpose centre for veteran’s support. SSAFA volunteers were joined by staff from local firm Willmott Dixon Construction, after the council put the two groups into contact.

Once complete, the unit will serve as a support hub that veterans and their families can visit to learn more about the help that SSAFA can offer.

Supporting the borough’s veterans is a priority for Mayor Ros Jones, and Civic Mayor Councillor Paul Wray visited workers to wish them well with the project.

SSAFA is an independent charity that offers financial support to members of the armed forces and their families, and Cllr Wray knows more than most about the important work the charity does.

Coun Wray said: “Many years ago, after I’d left the armed forces, SSAFA helped me by buying me a sofa at a time I was struggling financially. I’m very proud to be here today as Civic Mayor to congratulate and thank these people for all of the hard work they’re doing.

“This has been a real partnership project between the council, Willmott Dixon and the charity itself. At a time of year when we’ll all be thinking about the sacrifice of armed forces personnel, it’s great that we can see there is support in place for these men and women after they’ve left the service.”

Anthony Dillon, Managing Director of Willmott Dixon Construction Manchester said: “We were delighted to be working with such committed people at the Council and the Charity to support such a worthwhile cause alongside our supply chain partner Dolphin Decorators. It was a small gesture in recognition of our admiration and respect for our service personnel”

SSAFA offers a range of support to veterans and their families, including financial support to buy household objects. For more information, visit SSAFA