Reading Force, the charity which supports Armed Forces families through shared-reading resources and books, has been awarded funding from the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, delivered via Adferiad Recovery’s Thrive Together programme in Wales.
This funding will enable Reading Force to expand its reach to more veterans and their families across Wales, offering them the opportunity to take part in its popular shared-reading initiative. Joining Reading Force can help build stronger family bonds and reduce isolation by encouraging veterans and family members to read and talk about books together.
Alison Baverstock, Founder and Director of Reading Force, said:
“We’re delighted to receive this funding, which enables us to offer more Welsh veterans and their families the chance to connect through the power of books. Whether they’re reading together in the same room or discussing stories from afar, this is a simple but meaningful way to strengthen relationships and wellbeing.”
Neil Lawman, Programme Manager for Thrive Together at Adferiad, added:
“Reading Force is a wonderful initiative that aligns closely with Thrive Together’s aims to tackle loneliness and support the mental health of veterans and their families. We’re proud to support this project as part of our broader work across Wales.”
Over a three-year period from 2024-2027, Thrive Together aims to build sustainable and resilient networks to ensure Veterans receive prompt, effective and tailored support. Family support is a key component of Adferiad’s project in Wales, recognising that family dynamics play a significant role in veterans’ wellbeing. As a funded delivery partner, Reading Force is thrilled to be keeping Welsh families close and connected through sharing stories.
Veterans and family members in Wales can sign up to take part in Reading Force and receive their free books and resources at: https://www.readingforce.org.uk/join-reading-force/
Further information for veteran organisations in Wales can be requested from Reading Force’s Ambassador for Veterans in England and Wales, Lucy Fryer: Lucy@readingforce.org.uk
