Former members of the armed forces from across Wales are being encouraged to attend the Community Sports Series event being held at Bangor University on 30 and 31 May. The event organised by Help for Heroes brings former service men and women together, to try out a range of different adaptive sports.

Kevin, 62, who served in the RAF for more than 10 years, and lives in Carmarthenshire, will be attending his third Sports Series event, and says it’s a great opportunity to meet with like-minded people, and try some different activities in a relaxed and supportive environment.

He said: “When I was in the RAF, there wasn’t really any sport I didn’t take part in – I especially loved athletics. Unfortunately, I had to have the lower part of my right leg amputated due to an illness in 2024 – and it really affected my confidence as well as my mobility.

“But at the Sports Series events I attended last year, I was able to try rowing and even managed to get to the top of a climbing wall, thanks to the support and encouragement of everyone there. The sense of achievement was amazing.

“There’s a real sense of community at these events. There really is no pressure, you go at your own pace, and you can sit out and watch at any point and just have a chat to other people.”

The team behind the Sports Series events work with local and national sporting associations, to put on sports taster sessions that are tailored to all levels of ability. The event at Bangor offers boccia, wheelchair basketball, walking football, climbing and power-lifting. You don’t need to have any prior experience or expertise and all equipment is provided. During 2026 there is a programme of seven events across the UK. 

Kevin added: “When you’re dealing with physical or mental challenges, you can feel isolated.  Sometimes you get caught up in thinking “I can’t do that now” – but I’d say to any veterans out there, just come along, and try a few things. I’d been discharged for 31 years before I got in touch with the Charity – and I’ve really enjoyed these events.”

The Community Sports Series events are open to men and women who have served and their families. Attendance is free of charge, and costs for food and accommodation can be covered by the Charity if needed. If you would like to find out more, please go to https://www.helpforheroes.org.uk/community-sports-series/

For the financial year 2024/25, Help for Heroes saw an 11% increase in requests for help from people in Wales from the previous year.

Help for Heroes champions the Armed Forces community and helps people live well after service. The Charity supports veterans and their families with their physical and mental health, as well as welfare and social needs. It has already supported tens of thousands – and won’t stop until every veteran gets the support they deserve.   

The Charity supports veterans and their families from any branch of the UK military, regulars and reserves, irrespective of length or place of service, and locally embedded civilians who worked under the command of UK Armed Forces.