Healthier Heroes launches patron scheme for work with veterans

Healthier Heroes in Burnley was established as a community interest company in 2018, to provide accommodation and support to ex service men and women. The aim is to help overcome social isolation, homelessness and improve mental health and wellbeing in the veteran community from their facility at Bancroft House. They also provide counselling, support, food banks, and financial support to their network.

The annual running costs are over half a million pounds, so donations are most welcomed. Recently Healthier Heroes has set up a Patron's scheme, whereby individuals or companies can donate between £500 to £5,000 to give a particular level within the patron network.

Local businessman Tony Grimshaw, who himself served in the military, was so impressed with the facility at Bancroft House and services on offer that he has joined the Patron scheme. He said: "The people, the recipients of the services of this place, have given parts of their young lives and it's time to pay back. I really encourage people and businesses to get involved and support Healthier Heroes' hard work.

"I've joined up alongside Ian Wilkinson, whose grandad George Wilkinson was the founder of the bakeware company from Burnley. Ian is also the chairperson at Belvedere and Calder Vale Sports Club Burnley. All three of us are exceptionally proud to be the first three patrons of this exceptional facility."

Murray Dawson, managing director of Scott Dawson Advertising, added: "We were able to donate a fully designed pull up banner as that's what we do for a living. I'm sure many more businesses could help ease running costs, by donating their goods or services if not monetary donations. This is a great cause and they're doing great work in our local community."

Managing director of Healthier Heroes, Andrew Powell, added: "All money donated will enable us to be able to support the veterans and their families in a far greater way than we're doing now. The money will go into supporting the guys here at Bancroft House to aid them in their recovery, which fundamentally will get them back out living independently in the community once again.

"The Patron scheme has been designed to be flexible with size of donations, while giving people the recognition that they are actively supporting the veteran community. Any help and support, whether that's fundraising, donations, or businesses being part of the Patron network, it's more than welcomed. Thank you to Tony, Ian and Murray for their support!"