Sadly one of the highest categories of offenders in prisons today are our veterans. Having served in the Army and witnessed the challenges faced by many ex-servicemen after leaving the Service, I became acutely aware of the struggles they endure—whether due to trauma or the loss of structure and community that military life provided. My experience as a volunteer mentor in HMP Birmingham and others, gave me the understand of the huge complexities these veterans face while I sat with them to support finding employment and rebuilding their self-esteem.

A number of years ago I was connected with Changing Tunes in another Midlands prison. While not exclusively veteran focused; veterans are usually too ashamed to give their backgrounds, they are an inspiring charity that uniquely harnesses the transformative power of music to help an individual rebuild a fulfilling, crime-free life. They also offer preventative music-making programs in schools, youth facilities, probation and beyond, providing opportunities for those who need them most.

As I turned 70 last September, what better way to check I'm still on my feet than by signing up for my one ( and only!) marathon at this year's London Marathon on 26 April 2026. While ex-offender charities are not the most popular of causes, our veterans who fall on hard times need the support that Changing Tunes brings. You can read more about them here:

https://www.changingtunes.org.uk/our-outcomes

Please join me in raising £5,000 to support their exemplary work.