Veteran’s Plea for Message of Hope

An Army veteran from Greater Manchester is asking local people to send a message of hope to our veterans this Christmas, to show again that they value our service men and women. 

Last December, thousands of messages of support for veterans were posted online on the Help for Heroes Message Wall, and the Charity is hoping that people from Greater Manchester will respond again.

Laurence Moore, age 44 and from Stockport, served for 12 years in the Mercian Regiment and said: “Veterans can sometimes feel they are forgotten by society. And if they’re living with physical injuries, disabilities or mental illness they can become isolated – and especially at Christmas, their mental health can spiral down even further.

“The messages left by members of the public last year were so heart-warming. It would be great if we could get as many messages of hope as possible from people across Greater Manchester, which will show all our veterans that their service hasn’t been forgotten. Leaving a message is easy to do, and there’s no cost involved.”

Laurence’s career was cut short in 2015 by PTSD. He credits the guidance and support he received from Help for Heroes with helping to create a new chapter in his life and added: “When I was first diagnosed with PTSD, I isolated myself from everyone for a long period of time whilst I attempted to deal with the fallout. This was a very lonely period for me, especially over the festive season. I would decorate my tree and buy presents, knowing that no one else would see them, no one would buy me a present and my mantelpiece would be empty. 

“However, one of the most heart lifting things that happened was when amongst the mail was a Christmas card from Help for Heroes. It sat alone but proud on my shelf, but on a deeper level reminded me that I was part of another family, which would always have my back and be there for me.” 

Help for Heroes is aiming to send over 10,000 Christmas cards to veterans again this year, which will include messages of support from members of the public.

Laurence commented: “When you are in the armed forces, the sense of camaraderie is very strong. It’s different in civilian life and some veterans miss the military sense of family and closeness. It can lead to feelings of alienation.

“A few heartfelt words can remind someone they’re seen, valued, and appreciated. It could be the first step towards them reaching out for life-changing support, and to starting a new chapter in their lives.

“Because no one who served their country should feel alone, forgotten, or left behind this Christmas.  Together, we can help them continue their story – and make sure their next chapter is filled with hope, purpose, and belonging."

Latest data shows that there are more than 68,000 veterans living in Greater Manchester. If you would like to add your own message of support to the Help for Heroes Message Wall or make a donation, then go to: https://sendamessage.helpforheroes.org.uk/

Army Veteran Laurence Moore