Founded by Army veteran Barry John MBE in 2013, The VC Gallery has grown massively since its humble beginnings. It is supported by Steph Cross (Project Manager), Kevin Stanley, Josh Simmons (Military Peer Mentors), and a strong team of volunteers. From their two drop-in locations in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock, they offer help and support through creative active engagement to people of all ages, with mental and physical disabilities, and to those who may be suffering from social isolation.
‘Empowering people and enriching the community through social engagement, art, and creativity’
The DCo and The Veterans Charity Gallery have been side by side since The DCo HQ was in its old building on Dark Street, Haverfordwest. For those who don’t already know, The VC Gallery is a community-based arts charity in Pembrokeshire, Wales, focusing on supporting veterans, vulnerable individuals, and those affected by isolation or mental health challenges. Founded by Barry John MBE, a veteran himself, the gallery offers a space where people can engage in creative activities, find camaraderie, and access real mental health support.
At The VC Gallery, we provide a service that will improve the welfare and support for armed forces veterans and the wider community throughout Pembrokeshire, responding to their needs as quickly and efficiently as possible in an empathetic manner that engages with them, to support and assist with their particular needs and entitlements.
Why is The VC Gallery so important to DCO and the community of Pembrokeshire?
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- Art and Creative Expression: The gallery provides workshops, art classes, and creative activities for people of all backgrounds, especially for veterans and those who may feel isolated.
- Weekly activities: Coffee mornings, metal detecting, walking programmes, dig for victory, choir singing, historical events, peer mentorship and counselling, in addition to culinary activities and lessons make up the majority of the week.
- Veterans’ Support: It offers targeted assistance to veterans, helping them adjust to civilian life, connect with others with similar experiences, and find purpose through creativity and social support.
- Community Engagement: The VC Gallery fosters a sense of belonging, offering a safe environment where individuals can interact and find mutual support. This includes activities designed to boost mental well-being and social interaction.
- Outreach Programs: The gallery runs outreach initiatives to bring art and support services to those who might not otherwise access them, such as rural communities in Pembrokeshire.
White Knight Syndrome: Telling a different story with The VC Gallery
In the context of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), ‘White Knight Syndrome’ refers to a tendency of companies to step in as the ‘rescuer’ or ‘saviour’ for social, environmental, or community issues, often in a way that emphasises their own role as a hero rather than prioritising genuine, long-term solutions. This phenomenon can lead to CSR efforts that are more about image management and less about making substantial impacts.
Aware of this and indeed not initially looking for a CSR partnership, the relationship with The VC Gallery blossomed naturally. After confirming proof of concept in the space offered by DCo during their Dark Street era, Barry’s charity soon became a hub within the community and it became clear that the was a much bigger call for The VC Gallery services than initially anticipated. Since then, we have both contributed to each other in a meaningful way.
During residential learning and development programmes that we host in Pembrokeshire, we often include an element of CSR in which we challenge our delegates to add to and improve the VC Gallery. This goes beyond just lending a physical hand, our delegates’ strengths are engaged to develop long lasting plans for The VC Gallery. This has resulted in some truly exciting and beneficial events, including activities like Dig For Victory (a gardening project which has been continued on and benefitted hundreds of people) and outdoor movie events.
10 years later, over 10 people work for the VC and it has two vital hubs in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock.
The VC Gallery: Impact and Vision
The VC Gallery doesn’t just stop at Pembrokeshire. The charity is visionary in its desire to spread support for veterans and the wider community, and has developed blueprints for charities to use nationwide in attempt to strengthen their facilities and services.
Their mission is simple and impactful; we all need to strive for more when it comes to the fight for mental health and loneliness support.
The Gallery is widely valued for its role in enhancing community well-being, reducing loneliness, and improving mental health among veterans and civilians alike. Through its programmes, it aims to build resilience, promote social inclusion, and demonstrate the therapeutic benefits of creative expression.
What is CSR?
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to a business approach where companies take responsibility for the social, environmental, and economic impacts of their operations. It means going beyond just making a profit and focusing on how the business affects society. Companies practicing CSR aim to operate in ways that enhance society and the environment, often balancing this with their business goals.
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