Launchpad has been marking Remembrance with a programme of activities bringing together residents, staff, local schools and community partners to honour those who have served and sacrificed.
Remembrance is an important time for everyone at Launchpad. As a charity supporting veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, remembering the sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces community has particular significance for our residents, staff and the wider organisation.
Our teams are taking part in a series of events around Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, creating opportunities to reflect, remember and ensure younger generations understand the importance of Remembrance.
Teaching the next generation
The programme began on Wednesday 4 November, when Launchpad team members (see main image (pictured left to right)) Employment and Training Specialist Ian Summerson, Activities Co-ordinator Bethan Morgan, and Avondale House Deputy Manager and Facilities Lead Chris Longstaff visited Byker Primary School to deliver a presentation about Remembrance.
The team spoke to pupils about the significance of the occasion and invited the children to create a special Remembrance display for the altar, which they will present during the forthcoming service.
On Thursday 5 November, more Launchpad team members attended the Remembrance Fan Zone at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland. The event provided an opportunity to promote Launchpad’s work and bring together organisations that support and celebrate our Armed Forces community.
Joining with our communities
On Remembrance Sunday (8 November), residents and staff from Hollyacre House in Sacriston, Durham, attended a special Remembrance Service at Sacriston Methodist Church before gathering to lay a wreath at the village cenotaph. Later, they joined members of the local community at the Fulforth Centre.
Art afternoon at Speke House
Yesterday (Tuesday 10 November), at Speke House in Liverpool, staff and residents came together for a special art afternoon, with Armistice Day and Remembrance as their inspiration.
Earlier today (Armistice Day – Wednesday 11 November), residents and staff will visit the Imperial War Museum in Manchester.
They joined the nation in observing the two-minute silence at 11am and had the opportunity to explore the museum’s poppy display and extensive collection of wartime memorabilia.
Meanwhile, in Newcastle, Launchpad’s Avondale House team hosted a special Remembrance Service on Wednesday 11 November at the Lighthouse Project and St Michael’s Church in Byker.
The service brought together pupils from two local schools, Byker Primary School and St Lawrence’s Catholic Primary School, alongside members of the local community and representatives from Byker Community Trust, Feeding Families, Help for Heroes and ESH Group, as well as Launchpad staff, friends and family.
The importance of Remembrance
Jude McKee, Chief Executive of Launchpad, said:
“Remembrance is a particularly important time for us at Launchpad. We work with veterans every day, and we understand that behind every act of service is an individual, a family and a story that deserves to be remembered.
“It’s wonderful to see our teams, residents, local schools and community partners coming together to mark this important occasion. These activities are about remembering those who have served and sacrificed, but also about bringing generations together, sharing experiences and helping young people understand the importance of Remembrance.
“The activities reflect the importance of Remembrance across Launchpad, providing opportunities for residents, colleagues and local communities to come together, share experiences and pay their respects.
“We will remember them.”
