We’re delighted to announce a new partnership with Solider On!, an organisation that provides educational, personal development and archaeological opportunities for individuals who wish to participate on heritage projects delivered through The Services Archaeology and Heritage Association.
Soldier On! CEO Diarmaid Walshe (left) and Dr Jill Tolfrey sign an MoU
Designed to bring people and families together, supporting individuals in their rehabilitation from physical injury, illness or psychological trauma, the scheme has proved hugely successful with armed forces veterans and Soldier On is now keen to expand its reach to other community organisations.
The Fire Fighters Charity Chief Executive, Dr Jill Tolfrey, attended a dig at Hampole in Doncaster earlier this month, signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Soldier On! CEO Diarmaid Walshe to explore ways in which these archaeological opportunities can be made available to our beneficiaries.
“This is something very different, but the people I met there have all benefitted from the opportunities presented.”
Dr Jill Tolfrey
Dr Tolfrey visited a recent dig to find out more
Speaking of her time with Solder On!, Dr Tolfrey said: “Providing our beneficiaries with innovative new ways to meet others, learn new skills and take the time they need to reconnect with those closest to them, is a central part of our future ambitions. This is something very different, but the people I met there have all benefitted from the opportunities presented. Using archaeology and heritage, people are working together, connecting with each other, and finding purpose. The benefits for those facing both physical and mental health challenges are proven, so I’m excited to see how our beneficiaries can benefit from it too.”
Soldier On CEO Diarmaid Walshe added: “Soldier On! recognises and appreciates the sacrifices made by members of the fire services. We are thrilled to have signed this MoU with The Fire Fighters Charity and look forward to welcoming members of the fire services community, both serving and former, to participate in one of our projects soon.”
A full programme of activities with Soldier On! will be finalised in the coming weeks before being rolled out to beneficiaries.