The family run veterans' drop-in centre is in crisis after suffering a number of thefts. The centre receives constant referrals despite getting no ongoing financial support from the government or council.
The centre, run by veterans Scott Hawtrey and his wife Cait [pictured], has suffered heavy losses this year after collection points were stolen, and even items of furniture they store for veterans in need have gone missing.
The centre did receive minimal funding for a start-up last year but do not receive any ongoing financial support from the council, government or military covenant fund. In order to operate they rely on the general public to keep them afloat by way of fundraising events and donations.
Scott Hawtrey has also used his retirement fund and downgraded his own vehicle to support the centre.
Bolton Armed Forces Centre 4 Veterans'
aim is to provide a point of reference for veterans who need help and advice no matter what the issue is, from housing and benefits to someone to talk to about any other problems that may occur.
The centre is run by veterans who understand the problems veterans face, and can either help directly or put veterans in contact with people who may be able to help. It is also a quiet environment where veterans can chill out with like-minded individuals from the stresses that life outside the forces can bring.
Another function is to be linked to courses so veterans can obtain qualifications to make them more attractive to employers.
We urge our followers to donate to the Go Fund Me for Bolton Armed Forces Centre following this link:
Julie Hall, mother of Kingsman Darren Deady from Bolton, who died in hospital from injuries he suffered in Afghanistan in 2010, took to social media with her own appeal to support the centre:
