The selfless team at Save A Warrior UK works to support armed forces and first responder communities in their path to healing and self-discovery. Many veterans and first responders carry heavy burdens of trauma and moral injury, yet often suffer in silence due to stigma, fear of judgement, and lack of access to resources. Recognising these challenges, Save A Warrior offers groundbreaking programmes that helps empower these individuals as they set off on their hero’s journey. As CoirProducts of Salike® partners with this esteemed organisation, in this blog post, we speak to the co-founder, Friend, and Chief Operations Officer of Save A Warrior UK, Thomas Burgess, on the important work they do, and the many ways you can support them. Read on to learn more about Save A Warrior.
What led you to establish Save a Warrior?
Save A Warrior UK was established out of a deep-seated commitment to address the alarming rates of PTSD and suicide amongst veterans and first responders in the UK. Recognising the unique challenges faced by individuals who have served in the Armed Forces and First Responder communities, we wanted to bring the success of 12 years of delivery of the SAW programme to the UK. The driving force was the need to provide a space for this community to confront and heal from their trauma, ultimately preventing the tragic loss of life through suicide and improving life outcomes for their families as well.
On your website, you mention how many of our veteran and first respondent communities suffer in silence – can you tell us more about this, what are some key issues they face, and how does your work help them?
Many veterans and first responders carry the heavy burden of trauma and moral injury, often in silence due to stigma, fear of judgment, or lack of access to resources. They may even be comfortable carrying the burden, believing this is an extension of their service and “just one of those things”. Key issues they face include PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. Our work at Save A Warrior UK helps by providing a confidential, supportive environment where participants can explore their trauma, learn about coping strategies, and engage in practices like meditation and community healing. Our programme focuses on encouraging chemical sobriety before arrival and then personal growth through transformation, something we call “getting emotionally sober”. This empowers the individual to break the cycle of silence and set off on their hero’s journey.
Can you tell us a little bit about your programme – what are its aims, how does it run, who can be a part of it, what practices do you adopt?
The Save A Warrior UK programme aims to transform lives by providing a 3-day residential retreat followed by 500 days of ongoing support. The programme is open to individuals aged 18 and older who have served just one day in the UK Armed Forces, Police, or Fire Service. Participants engage in a range of practices including meditation, group discussions, and personal reflection, all in a drug and alcohol-free environment. The programme is designed to foster healing, resilience, and a commitment to serving others.
How impactful has Save a Warrior been to its participants?
Save A Warrior has been profoundly impactful, offering participants a renewed sense of hope and purpose. Over 2500 individuals have been through the programme globally. The participants came from the UK, US, Australia, and other European areas. Many graduates report a sense of transformation and healing, with the programme helping to reduce symptoms of PTSD and improve overall quality of life. Our follow-up support through weekly Zoom meetings ensures that participants continue to feel supported long after their initial retreat.
How can others support the work of Save a Warrior?
There are several ways to support Save A Warrior UK. Individuals and businesses can contribute through donations, sponsor seats in our programme cohorts via the Community of Compassion, or participate in fundraising initiatives like the 1 Million Miles Project. Volunteering for events or helping with website SEO are also valuable ways to contribute. By spreading awareness and engaging with our community, supporters can help us reach more individuals in need and continue our mission of preventing suicide among veterans and first responders.
Since our inception, we at CoirProducts.co.uk® of Salike® have always been driven by purpose, and have been deeply committed to making meaningful contributions to communities we work with. Our partnership with Save A Warrior is personal to us. For us, this partnership is more than just giving back. We invite you to learn more about their ongoing journey of healing, supporting, and community by visiting, Save A Warrior UK.
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