We’re building a future where every member of the Armed Forces community has equal access to the care and support they deserve.
Better > Stronger > Together
The Forces Wellbeing Collective is a growing network of professionals, volunteers and cross-sector organisations, working in partnership to strengthen support for veterans, serving personnel, their families and carers across the North West.
Originally formed as part of the Veterans’ Places, Pathways & People (VPPP) Programme — funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust — the Collective was convened and is led regionally by Armed Forces Community HQ, bringing together a wide-ranging Portfolio of Partners across Cheshire & Merseyside, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and South Cumbria.
Now entering a new and exciting phase, the programme continues under the name Thrive Together (2024–2027), building on the strong foundations laid by VPPP. Funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust, Thrive Together aims to create a lasting, joined-up support network where no one is left behind.
At its heart is a simple but powerful goal: to ensure that every member of the Armed Forces community has timely, effective and holistic support — in places they trust, from people who understand. Whether you’re part of the VCSE sector, statutory services, or the wider community, this is your invitation to join forces and be part of meaningful change.
Our Values
Our work is grounded in five core commitments that shape everything we do.
Collaboration
Collaboration
Quality
Quality
Inclusiveness
Inclusiveness
Participation
Participation
Sustainability
Sustainability
Why We’re Here
In 2024, our consultation with hundreds of professionals and veterans across the North West revealed a clear message: we need more safe places, clearer pathways, and more confident, supported people to deliver them.
– 75% felt there were significant barriers to accessing local services
– Many reported confusion and frustration with support pathways
– 58% of respondents said professionals lacked the right training to help
– Charities are seeing burnout, gaps in volunteer recruitment, and rising complexity of need
The Forces Wellbeing Collective exists to change that. We are raising awareness, building bridges between services, and creating practical, scalable solutions — together.
We’re not here to be a “talking shop.” We’re here to lead. With a bold vision, a strong network, and a growing membership, we’re transforming how wellbeing support reaches the Armed Forces community.
Our Team
Our team is united by a shared commitment to those who serve and have served. With deep experience, lived understanding, and passion that goes beyond professional duty, we work collaboratively to drive forward the mission of the Forces Wellbeing Collective.
John Pluckwell
Debs Mills-Burns
Janet Preston
Janine Brownlees
Brian Hawke
Wendy Walters
