“When I heard about the Breaking Barriers Project whilst at VOS (Veteran Outreach Support) I was excited at the prospect of sharing my experiences in the forces. I have PTSD and have served in Northern Ireland, Bosnia and the Falklands. Getting involved with the project and speaking to the young people about the highs and lows of my time in the Navy, has had a therapeutic effect on me personally, but also, the thought that I have contributed to the education and understating of young people regarding the forces, has given me a sense of wellbeing.”
Neil, Navy veteran.
“Being 97 years old and still being able to share my stories of WW2 to youngsters in the city is a pleasure. There’s not many of us left, so this project has been important for me, but mainly the kids who have had the opportunity to listen and ask me questions about a war that would have involved their great grandparents.”
John, Gold Beach WW2 Veteran.
“Meeting John was amazing. To hear first-hand about his experiences in WW2 was a humbling experience. It put into perspective the sacrifices made by all those people. I feel lucky and privileged to have met such an inspirational person. People like John put their lives on the line for our future, that is why it is important we remember them on Remembrance Day.”
Katy, aged 15.
“The public speaking session in the run up to my first talk was useful, as I could be reassured that the content of what I wanted to say, was pitched at the right level for the age of the young people I was set to talk to.”
Catherine, WRNS.
“Being in my 60’s I am not exactly computer savvy but wanted to have some images behind me to act as prompts when I spoke. It was great that I could attend some prep sessions to put appropriate images on a presentation. That gave me the confidence I needed.”
“To begin with, my first talk at a primary school was very daunting. I was so nervous I came out in spots! Danny noticed this in the run up, and organised a talk with a small group of kids. I have now progressed to talking in a whole school assembly…something that I’d never thought I’d be able to do.”
Mike, Veteran.
“Before we had the workshop, we could only imagine what it must have been like to be involved in conflict. Now we have heard first-hand the ups and downs of life at war, but also what it is like on a day-to-day basis, away from battle and conflict.”
Ben, aged 14.
“The talk with Joel gave us all an insight into what life is really like in the Royal Marines. He helped us to see the positive and negative sides to his active service, and also got us thinking about the effects on his family when he is away. His poem was very moving.”
Harry, aged 14.
Breaking Barriers Project 