Ten veterans who have experienced homelessness travelled to Malta for a unique heritage and wellbeing programme, helping them rebuild confidence, reconnect with their service and create lasting friendships.
A group of veterans who have experienced homelessness and significant challenges since leaving the Armed Forces recently took part in a life-changing trip to Malta, helping them rebuild confidence, strengthen friendships and reconnect with their military identity.
Led by Alabaré, the Mission to Malta programme brought together ten veterans from the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army and RAF communities for a two-week residential experience. The group included five Royal Navy and Royal Marine veterans who participated in a varied programme of heritage, wellbeing and community activities.
Hosted by Armed Forces Malta, participants stayed at the historic Naval Hay Wharf dockyard, where they were welcomed into a supportive military environment once again. Throughout the trip, veterans took part in cultural visits, conservation projects and social activities, while also having the opportunity to spend time with serving personnel and experience life at sea aboard a Maltese military vessel.
The project was designed to support veterans who have faced significant obstacles during their transition to civilian life. Through shared experiences and new challenges, participants developed stronger social connections, improved their wellbeing and gained renewed confidence in themselves and their future.
One of the highlights of the visit was participation in Malta’s Anzac Day commemorations, where the group attended a wreath-laying ceremony alongside military and civic representatives. Veterans also visited several of the island’s historic sites, gaining a deeper appreciation of Malta’s longstanding military heritage.
For many participants, the trip provided an opportunity to rediscover the camaraderie, purpose and sense of belonging they had missed since leaving service. By stepping outside their comfort zones and working together, the group formed lasting friendships and created positive memories that will stay with them long after the journey ended. Alabaré has supported vulnerable veterans for many years, providing accommodation and tailored services to those experiencing homelessness and other challenges. The Mission to Malta programme demonstrated the powerful impact that shared experiences, support networks and new opportunities can have in helping veterans move forward with confidence.
This mission was supported through a Remembrance and Comradeship Grant funded by Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity and Greenwich Hospital. To find out more about our Remembrance & Comradeship grants, please see our dedicated webpage here: Remembrance & Comradeship Grants | The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity
