Mayor of Islington joins Op COURAGE drop-In at St Pancras Hospital | Latest news

The Mayor of Islington visited the London Op COURAGE drop-in event at St Pancras Hospital on Thursday 24 April to learn more about what it offers and show support for the Armed Forces community.

The event, which is held monthly, provides a vital opportunity for those serving in the military, veterans, and their families to access support services in a relaxed, informal setting. Each month there are different health and wellbeing activities for those who attend.

During the visit, the Mayor Councillor Anjna Khurana and her husband Micky, also joined in a lively improv comedy session, provided by Op COURAGE and Veterans Creative, led by Viki Jackson, coach and facilitator, which brought laughter and camaraderie to the group. It was a chance for everyone engage in some light-hearted fun, building connections within the community.

Councillor Khurana also met veterans, and members of various support organisations, including Department of Work and Pensions, Help for Heroes, Veterans UK, Defence Gardens Scheme. These organisations offer crucial resources to help military personnel transition to civilian life, whether that’s through mental health support, employment services, or general wellbeing advice.

The Mayor praised the event for creating a welcoming space where veterans can find support and build relationships with others in the community. She said:

"It's a privilege to see how these drop-ins are supporting veterans and their families, helping them navigate the challenges they face and find the help they need in a familiar environment".

“We all have different interests and different needs. It is wonderful to see the range of services and activities available to veterans to support them.”

Op COURAGE ensures that veterans and serving military members have access to both practical and emotional support. Alongside the clinical staff on hand to discuss mental health concerns, the drop-in fosters a sense of solidarity among those who have served. Refreshments are provided, and attendees can connect with others who have shared similar experiences.

The drop-in coordinator for Op COURAGE, Tim Riley, who is a Psychological Therapist, said: “It was great to have the Mayor here to see such a lively and active drop-in and we are very grateful that she got involved and seemed to enjoy the session and hearing about our work.”

Different activities are being held at the drop-in each month, by Veterans Creative, coordinated by Neil Davies, a veteran, filmmaker and author who has been working with Op COURAGE to reach out to the Armed Forces community.

Governor, Jackie Noone and governor Olga Cecilia Farach (Islington public governor) also participated in the event representing the Council of Governors.