THE Veterans Regroup Project, managed by Smart Savings CIC, has announced the launch of a new, monthly Armed Forces Hub in Penzance.

Starting on August 27 at Penzance and Newlyn RFC, the additional hub brings Cornwall’s total number of Armed Forces hubs to six, with locations in Penzance, Helston, Redruth, Newquay, Bodmin and Liskeard.

These hubs provide welcoming spaces for veterans, serving personnel, reservists, operationally qualified seafarers, and their families to connect, enjoy free refreshments and a chat, and access information and advice from a wide range of local and national support organisations.

The Penzance hub launch also introduces an exciting pilot in collaboration with Smile Together Dental CIC. From October 2025, military veterans will be able to book dental appointments via the hubs, improving access to essential dental care and reducing barriers, particularly for those living in rural parts of Cornwall.

There are an estimated 39,000 military veterans living in Cornwall, and including their families, the Armed Forces community represents around 10 per cent of the local population. Many face challenges such as debt, mental health issues, housing difficulties, substance misuse, unemployment, and social isolation.

Jane Jiwa, projects director of the Veterans Regroup Project and Smart Savings CIC, added: “Thanks to the generous support of our funders, we’ve expanded our Armed Forces hubs to six locations across Cornwall and introduced free transport to make them easier to access.

“Working alongside more than 30 military charities and organisations, our hubs provide a welcoming one-stop space for friendly, practical support, as well as a safe place to connect, volunteer, and take part in community activities.

“We’re also delighted to share a new collaboration with Smile Together Dental CIC, which from October will give veterans improved access to essential dental care.”

Paul Mouncher, who served 28 years in the Royal Navy and is the new community hub and volunteer coordinator, said: “When I left service, after joining as a teenager, I did not know where or who to turn to for advice and support for even the most basic things.

“Nobody explains about the waiting lists for doctors, dentists, housing, and a whole host of other issues service personnel take for granted whilst serving. With no support, most veterans don’t realise the help and support that is available to them and simply become disengaged from daily life.

“The hubs have proved to be pivotal in bringing together the military community and support agencies and charities resulting in direct support without the need for lengthy sign posting and as a one stop shop means they can get support and resolve many of their issues in one visit.”

More than 30 organisations regularly support and attend the hubs across Cornwall, including RNAS Culdrose, RAF St Mawgan, Cornwall Council Housing, Walking With The Wounded, With You, Help for Heroes, Op Courage (NHS), Smile Together Dental CIC, Healthy Cornwall, Department for Work and Pensions, Defence Business Services (Veterans UK), South West Water, Fighting With Pride, Active Plus, Royal British Legion, Aggie Weston’s, Royal Naval Benevolent Trust, Forces Employment Charity, and EPIC Gigability.