Marlborough Hub serves those who have served

AMY RUSS

When it comes to caring for those who served, Janice Marshall is a one-woman powerhouse.

A former RNZAF airwoman who served from 1974 to 1979, today she channels that pioneering spirit into running the Veterans’ Hub in Marlborough, a lifeline for local ex-servicemen and women.

The Hub has its roots in Christchurch, where it began five years ago with informal coffee days for veterans.

“From there it was decided to form a welfare element,” Janice explains. Two years ago, she was asked to bring the initiative to Marlborough. Today, there are four hubs in NZ, with more in the pipeline.

Janice, also the RNZAF Association National Executive Representative for Marlborough, coordinates the Marlborough group as a volunteer.  She also designed the national logo, explaining, “The colours represent the three services, and the linked symbol reflects the wraparound care we can assist with.”

The hub is independent, free, and open to all ex-military, regardless of which service they worked in. Meetings are held every third Thursday of the month at Sowman’s Funeral Home from 10am.

“We spend the first half hour having coffee and a chat, then update everyone on Veterans’ Affairs and MSD,” says Janice.

Guest speakers cover a range of topics, from medical issues like prostate cancer to welfare support and the realities of retirement.

Veterans’ Affairs/MSD can assist with hearing aids, medical aids, home help, and other services. Janice emphasises that too many veterans are hesitant to ask for help.

“We are veterans supporting veterans,” she says. “Don’t be shy – we are here to help you get the support you need.”

Reflecting on the importance of the work, Janice adds: “Whilst so much help is available for veterans of WWII and conflicts of last century, we also need to concentrate now on those veterans of modern conflicts - Afghanistan, Timor-Leste, etc. Our goal is to make sure no veteran has to face challenges alone.”

Wraparound services can also be sourced through the RNZAF and RNZN Associations plus similar veteran organisations.

“Veterans Hub welcomes partners at the Hub morning, as part of the holistic approach to welfare. The Hub takes care to preserve privacy and confidentiality and is always grateful to hear from or about veterans who might benefit from contact.”

For veterans seeking support or wanting to attend, contact Janice to connect with the Veterans’ Hub, Marlborough or RNZAF Association and find out how they can help. Connect through our Facebook group to find out more.