Support from the Veterans’ Foundation is helping the 104-year-old charity expand its Navigator service, supporting veterans facing complex challenges to rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing and move towards employment.
Every year, veterans at The Poppy Factory produce the Remembrance wreaths and poppies seen at commemorations across the country. But behind these familiar Remembrance traditions is a mission that began more than a century ago.
Founded in 1922 by Major George Howson MC, The Poppy Factory was established to provide employment for disabled veterans returning from the First World War. Today, it continues his vision, helping veterans overcome barriers and rebuild their lives through work.
The Veterans’ Foundation has awarded The Poppy Factory grants totalling £162,000 in recent years. In 2018, two £5,000 grants went towards their employment service for veterans. In 2024, they received a one-year salary grant of £25,000 and in 2025, a grant of £132,000 was awarded to be paid over two years and cover the cost of two new full-time navigator posts to help expand the charity’s Navigator programme, a specialist pre-employment service for veterans facing multiple complex challenges.
Through up to six months of tailored, one-to-one support, Navigator helps veterans rebuild confidence, improve wellbeing and reconnect with their communities through meaningful activities. When ready, they can progress into The Poppy Factory’s Employment Service.
Amanda Shepard, Chief Executive of The Poppy Factory, said:
“Our founder, Major George Howson, created The Poppy Factory to give injured veterans the opportunity to work, rebuild their independence and find a sense of purpose. His mission remains at the heart of everything we do.
“We simply couldn’t have trialled, consolidated and launched Navigator without the significant support of the Veterans’ Foundation. Some veterans need help to rebuild their confidence, wellbeing and support networks before they can take steps towards employment. Navigator gives us the time to help lay those foundations.”
In 2025–26, 167 veterans accessed Navigator, up from 100 the previous year. Of these, 73 achieved their personal goals, 39 progressed to the Employment Service and 13 moved into employment.
One veteran who has experienced the difference Navigator can make is Ian Stowe. After more than 20 years serving in the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Ian left the Army in 2023 and experienced homelessness and unemployment.
With Navigator’s support, Ian rebuilt his confidence and established an Armed Forces drop-in at Tranmere Rovers. Its first meeting attracted more than 50 people, bringing veterans together in his local community.
Ian said:
“I’ll always encourage other veterans to contact The Poppy Factory. Having someone alongside you who understands can make a huge difference.”
Jane Gurney, CEO of the Veterans’ Foundation, said:
“We’re so proud to support The Poppy Factory and its vital work helping veterans get back on their feet through tailored, one-to-one support. Navigator gives those facing the greatest challenges the support they need to at that time to rebuild their confidence, reconnect with their communities and take steps towards employment.”
More than 100 years after Major Howson established The Poppy Factory, the Veterans’ Foundation is helping the charity continue his vision: ensuring veterans have the support and opportunity to build a future through meaningful activity and employment.
