Sunshine and Solidarity: Making the Most of Summer in the Veteran Community

For many UK veterans, summer can be a time of quiet reflection. The warmer months bring longer days, brighter skies and, with them, opportunities to step outside, reconnect with others and take part in events that honour the life you’ve lived and the future still ahead. 

Whether you’re newly transitioned to civilian life or have been out for decades, summer is a powerful reminder that every season can bring something new. More than just time off, it’s a chance to explore wellbeing, camaraderie and purpose, often in places and ways you might not expect. 

At Justice4Heroes, we believe that veterans thrive when they’re connected, respected and seen. This blog is a guide to making the most of summer 2025, with real ideas, events and tips designed specifically with the UK veteran community in mind. 

1. Reflect on Armed Forces Day 2025 

Armed Forces Day took place on Saturday 28 June, with events held across the UK. From parades and concerts to family fun days, these gatherings brought veterans, families and the wider public together to celebrate and show appreciation. 

If you attended, take a moment to reflect on how it made you feel. If you didn’t make it this year, now is a great time to stay in touch with local veteran networks who took part. Many of them continue their outreach work through summer, offering ways to get involved or reconnect. 

2. Recognise Reserves Day 

Reserves Day, which took place on 25 June, highlighted the important contributions of Reservists to our Armed Forces. Even if you didn’t mark it this year, you can still use the season to share your own story, connect with fellow Reservists or simply acknowledge the role this community plays in national defence. 

Some workplaces spotlight their Reservist staff through newsletters or team talks. Sharing your experience might open doors for future support or connection. 

3. Take Part in Veteran-Led Outdoor Activities 

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor spaces that support physical and mental wellbeing. Across the UK, many veteran-led organisations run programmes focused on getting outside and connecting with nature. 

A few to explore include: 

• Pilgrim Bandits Charity Walks 
  Organised hikes led by injured veterans and supporters 
  www.pilgrimbandits.org 

• Surf Action (Cornwall) 
  Surfing and sea-based wellbeing for veterans with PTSD 
  www.surfaction.co.uk 

• Veterans Outdoors (North West England) 
  Nature walks, green therapy and group support 
  www.veteransoutdoors.org.uk 

• Fishing for Forces 
  Angling experiences for veterans at all skill levels 
  www.fishingforforces.org 

These activities are less about fitness and more about community, focus and peace of mind. 

4. Reconnect at a Veterans’ Breakfast Club 

Breakfast Clubs continue to grow across the UK, and summer offers a chance to join in or revisit one you’ve not been to for a while. These informal meetups are welcoming, relaxed and full of friendly faces. 

There are no rules, no uniforms and no speeches. Just good food and good company. 

5. Volunteer in Your Community 

If you’ve been missing a sense of structure or purpose, volunteering can be an excellent way to fill that gap. Summer is a busy time for community organisations, especially those supporting veterans, and many are looking for extra hands. 

From admin and mentoring to event support or fundraising, there’s something for everyone. Some of the organisations to check out include: 

• SSAFA 

• The Royal British Legion 

• Walking With The Wounded 

• Launchpad 

• Help for Heroes 

• Combat Stress 

Even a few hours a month can make a lasting difference for you and others. 

6. Set a Summer Goal 

It doesn’t need to be big. It just needs to be yours. 

Veterans often thrive when they have something to work towards. Whether it’s a physical challenge, a creative project or simply committing to a new routine, a personal goal can help build confidence and pride. 

Here are a few ideas: 

• Walk a section of the South West Coast Path 

• Grow vegetables in your garden or balcony 

• Cycle 50 miles over the course of the summer 

• Read five books that inspire you 

• Visit every military museum in your region 

• Complete the Couch to 5K programme by September 

7. Look After Your Mind and Body 

Summer’s longer days can bring an energy boost, but they also offer a chance to reset. 

You might: 

• Try a short mindfulness session each morning 

• Walk in the evenings to wind down 

• Join a veteran-focused yoga or wellbeing group 

• Create a gentle routine that includes a bit of movement and reflection 

If you’re living with hearing loss, PTSD or long-term pain, small, regular actions can lead to long-term improvements in how you feel. 

8. Sign and Share the Petition 

While summer is a time of connection, it’s also a moment to take action. Thousands of UK veterans who served before 1987 were excluded from the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. Many live with hearing loss or trauma and have been left without proper recognition or support. 

Justice4Heroes is working to change that, but we need your help. 

This summer, you can: 

• Share the petition at local events 

• Mention it at your Veterans Breakfast Club 

• Post it in veteran Facebook groups 

• Talk to your MP or councillor 

• Sign it yourself and ask your mates to do the same 

🖊 Sign the petition here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/715800

Final Thoughts 

This summer is yours. Whether you spend it reconnecting with others, challenging yourself or simply taking a breath, remember this: 

You’ve already served. Now it’s your time to be supported. 

Visit www.justice4heroes.org to see how we’re helping veterans claim what they’re owed and rebuild with pride. 

Summer is not just about sunshine. It’s about solidarity. Let’s make the most of it together.