Veterans’ hubs or drop-ins provide a warm and welcoming place where any member of the Armed Forces community (serving and ex-service) and their family can go for help, advice and company.

They offer refreshments as well as general welfare support such as health and wellbeing and financial and employment advice. This is often provided through a service charity, as well as signposting to other agencies such as the local council, Job Centre and Citizens Advice.

These meetings take place on a regular basis under one roof, at the same time normally each month and in an informal and welcoming environment. They range in size from small, focused groups to larger ones with a range of attendees.

Visit the Association of Ex-Service Drop-In Centres (ASDIC) website for more information about drop-in centres.

Sheds

Sheds (sometimes referred to as Men’s Sheds) are a place for people, including veterans, of any age to visit to learn practical skills in a friendly environment.

They encourage friendship and local connections, bringing veterans and civilians together to share skills and knowledge in a safe, non-threatening and caring environment.

Activities in Sheds vary greatly, but can include woodworking, metalworking, repairing and restoring, electronics, model building or even car building.

Find out more about Sheds on the Men's Sheds website.

Breakfast clubs

Breakfast clubs for veterans who like to meet up socially on a regular basis.

There are no joining fees – veterans just turn up and pay for their own breakfast. They differ from hubs and drop-ins as they tend not to offer additional support from external agencies, although some do.

For local information or support, contact Dorset Forces Charities Network.

Forces Connect also has information on how to find local services.