Refreshments and Ramblings between Veterans




This morning I turned on my laptop. No different to most days, only today it is Thursday - it must be the Carlisle Veteran's Hub. 

Working with veterans is a core part of our Museum work. From our monthly veterans' lunch club to working with veterans on a dedicated exhibition, we pride ourselves on our growing connection wtih veterans of all ages. Whether RAF, Navy or Army, the Museum embraces all services and ranks as long as there is a connection to the county of Cumbria, or the local infantry regiment. Gradually, over the last few years the Museum has strengthened its links with the local military community.

So it was great to think that we could offer a venue to host the first veterans hub in Carlisle at the end of March. Spearheaded by two local veterans, the hub was to provide a space for like-minded folk to get together over a brew. Inspired by the Workington Veterans Hub, the date, time and location were set. Then came the pandemic.

The idea then switched to a virtual hub but with no actual meetings even started, where would we promote this? One of the veterans took the lead, establishing a facebook page and promoting the first virtual get-together. As the day dawned on the first on-line meeting, we were unsure how it would work. In total seven visitors attended the on-line meeting and a few laughs were had. Excellent stuff.

It is now two months since that first meeting and this morning at 1130am we opened our virtual chat. There is no set agenda but an opportunity for a craic and a laugh. 'Not one for running' confessed one of the participants, with discussions about treadmills, gym openings and running through a tunnel. Conversations varied from comments like 'Funny ol' world we live in but Primark is opening on Monday' to 'You can take your Nan to Thorpe Park but I can't hug my family.' From fake news, army discipline, cheese burger pizzas, painting fence panels and making tea ('nothing like stirring tea with a twig on exercise'), the subject matter is vast and varied. But it is comfortable and relaxed and everyone is welcome.

I asked the two veterans who lead on the group what they like about it. 'There is no set agenda' said one 'It is nice to have a regular routine and speak to other people during lockdown.' 'The pandemic has provided us with an opportunity to build a community despite lockdown. We can share ideas and experiences with like-minded people.' explains the second veteran. He continues 'And a couple of the calls have been quite deep and provided an opportunity for people to talk.' We are still planning for face to face, real-life meetings when it is safe to do so, but until then the virtual chats are providing a local opportunity for 'refreshments and ramblings.' Long may they last.

Comments

  1. RodJune 11, 2020 at 12:35 PM

    I will be quite sad when the virtual meetings finish.

    ReplyDelete

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