Background
Age Well East is a Colchester-based charity that has supported people in later life across Essex since 1950, after funding was secured to improve the welfare of older people following World War II. Colchester’s strong military heritage, including its army barracks, has shaped Age Well East’s long-standing work with Armed Forces veterans. Through targeted, grant-funded projects, the charity provides veteran-led social activities and one-to-one befriending, alongside specialist support for people living with dementia and their family carers. It also works to reduce isolation and related hardship by offering free access to advice, welfare support, and information.
Armed Forces veterans hold an important place within families, local communities, and wider civic life, reflected nationally through annual Remembrance services. Building on growing community awareness and the opportunity to create new social connections, the Veterans Choir was identified as a meaningful way to bring veterans together and increase their visibility and participation across communities.
The Story behind the Veterans Choir
In round two of the Essex County Council Arts and Cultural Fund, Age Well East received support from the to develop a new Veterans Choir. The choir was made up of members from Age Well East’s Colchester and Harwich Veterans’ Friendship Groups. The project responded to the significant Armed Forces population in Colchester and neighbouring Tendring, as highlighted in the 2021 Census, which recorded 7,172 veterans living in Colchester and 6,338 in Tendring.
The choir was consistently well attended, with most participants aged over 78. It created opportunities for peer-to-peer connection with male and female ex-service personnel, including those linked to other veteran organisations within the Garrison community. Regular rehearsals offered vital social contact for individuals at greater risk of isolation, loneliness, and reduced mental wellbeing across Colchester Borough and Tendring District.
Rehearsals took place fortnightly at the Church of England Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen’s Club and the Garrison Church, both located on the Colchester Garrison site. The choir also performed at events in Mistley, the Garrison’s King’s Coronation celebration, and a further event at the Garrison Church, all of which were particularly successful. In addition, members attended a singing camp in South Wales. Overall, the choir provided a positive and enjoyable way for veterans to come together, share a common interest, and build social connections.
Legacy
At its core, the Veterans Choir supported individuals to build confidence, independence, and a sense of choice through their engagement with Age Well East. Performances at community events were shaped and led by the participants themselves, ensuring the choir reflected their interests and aspirations.
The group played a key role in helping participants form new friendships and informal support networks, supported by shared experiences and increased visibility within the community. This contributed directly to improved wellbeing and positive mental health outcomes.
Throughout the programme, Age Well East was also able to identify individuals who would benefit from referral into other essential services. The choir provided a valuable opportunity to share information, raise awareness of available support, and connect participants with wider opportunities to meet their needs.
Testimonials
“Meeting every Monday at the Army Café has really given us enjoyment, meeting other serviceman and veterans is great”.
“We enjoy the activities and events provided by Age Well East and feel things are improving since COVID”.
“We love meeting with the Choir on Fridays – highlight of our week”.
“Our day out to the Garrison and Recovery Centre gave us a good insight into the Army of today. Thank you”
