Veterans hub opening at Plymouth's Brickfields to help military leavers adjust to civilian life

Lorna Hughes

24 June 2024 at 9:56 am·3-min read

How the Brickfields area could look after a £21 million investment to create a centre for Plymouth Argyle's academy and women's team and a community sports and wellbeing hub — -Credit: (Image: Plymouth Argyle Football Club)

A new veterans hub will open in Plymouth later this year. PL1 Civvy Street will provide everything from job placement services and counselling to social activities and help securing housing.

The service, at Brickfields Hub, will provide a welcoming environment and support tailored to the "unique challenges faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life", the Argyle Community Trust says. It is being supported by Plymouth-based contractor Retain Limited, which has supported veterans with jobs within the group.

PL1 Civvy Street will have caseworkers who will assess each veteran's needs and connect them with the right charities. It also aims to help them find their next career move, including accessing training programmes. There will also be support for veterans who are homeless and a focus on community to connect them with other veterans.

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Dwain Morgan, Argyle Community Trust's Business and Impact Manager said: “We are incredibly grateful to have an organisation like Retain Limited on board, who share many of our values, and we are proud to be facilitating their inspirational veteran support project at the new Brickfields Hub.”

Ben Kerswell, Trust Health and Wellbeing Manager, added: “We have a proud history of supporting veterans in our city. We have been running a veteran’s café at Central Park Hub for three years to help reduce social isolation, increase activity levels, and improve mental well-being among veterans.

“Through PL1 Civvy Street, the partnership between Retain Limited, The Trust, and Brickfields Hub can enable veterans across the city to thrive.”

Jamie Gibbs, the founder of Retain Limited and PL1 Civvy Street, is a veteran himself after serving with the Royal Marines. He said: “This announcement signifies a positive and exciting development for veterans in the Plymouth area.

“The Brickfields Hub’s designation as the home for PL1 Civvy Street, supported by Retain Limited, presents a valuable opportunity and has the potential to greatly empower veterans. This collaborative effort promises a comprehensive support system, addressing various aspects of veterans’ well-being after their military service.

“The Brickfields Hub’s role in assisting with our program is commendable, and its success will be a testament to the collaborative spirit within the Plymouth community."

For more information about PL1 Civvy Street visit https://www.civvy-street.co.uk

For more information on PL1 Civvy Street and the services and support they will offer, please visit https://www.civvy-street.co.uk/.

Save the date! PL1 Civvy Street is holding a prestigious fundraising gala at Plymouth’s renowned Crowne Plaza Hotel this September. This unforgettable evening promises to be the social event of the season, but with a purpose that transcends mere glamour.

Your attendance grants you the opportunity to make a real difference. By joining, you’ll become part of history, contributing to crucial fundraising efforts that will kickstart the opening of PL1 Civvy Street. This impactful initiative is more than just a project; it’s a pledge to significantly improve the lives of British military personnel transitioning to civilian life.

Be inspired by the heroes themselves. The event welcomes esteemed former servicemen Simon Weston CBE and Toby Gutteridge, who will share their captivating and inspirational stories, leaving a lasting impression. Renowned broadcaster David FitzGerald will host the gala.

This exclusive gala offers a night of exquisite cuisine, delightful company, and the chance to be part of something extraordinary. To purchase tickets, please visit PL1 Civvy Street’s website.

To learn more about the Brickfields redevelopment, visit the dedicated microsite at https://www.pafc.co.uk/brickfields-development. There, you can also sign up for the newsletter to stay updated on the latest developments. If you have any questions, you can get in touch via email at brickfields@pafc.co.uk.

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