Soldiers and families of 2 Medical Regiment can now relax in a brand new welfare facility which opened just in time for the Regiment’s six month tour to Afghanistan.

A grand opening saw the light and airy centre buzzing with families and rear party soldiers who came along to check out the facilities and browse the information and sales stands (whilst the children present made good use of the kids play area!). All seemed impressed with the centre, including Gail Wyllie (pictured) whose husband has just departed to Afghanistan. Gail, who is also currently training for the Hamburg marathon for 2 Medical Regiment’s welfare fund, said: “we all really like the new facilities and will definitely be coming in regularly for coffee mornings and to use the internet”.

Left to right; Karen Bourne, Becky John, Gail Wyllie and Mel Woodward relax at the new welfare centre official opening

The Unit Welfare team were also on hand to show visitors around and ensure that the tea, coffee and cakes were flowing throughout the day! Unit Welfare Officer, Captain Cat Cole, explained the purpose of the new welfare centre: “the families and rear party soldiers are welcome to drop in at any time to pick up information about upcoming trips or just have a chat. The team are all on hand to support any queries and we also have drivers available who can support families with transport to the airport and other destinations when needed”.

Home Start, The Army Welfare Service, the Army Families Federation and the HIVE all had information available for the families

Captain Cole continued: “we have many events and trips coming up including regular Sunday lunches, a trip to Serengeti Park and Friday evening Bingo nights. All the information will be available in the welfare centre, in the Heide magazine and in our welfare newsletter. We also hope that families will also make full use of the internet facilities where they can send eblueys to loved ones in Afghanistan at www.bfpo.mod.uk/ebluey_home.htm  and read regular updates from Afghanistan on the 2 Medical Regiment website on www.armynet.mod.uk. It is easy to get onto Army Net, you do need a log on but if anyone is having problems please telephone or pop in to see us and we can arrange this. Once you’re logged in just put ‘2 Medical Regiment’ in the search box and you will see the website!”

Article by Lizzie Wood

Fantastic Sales stalls completed the open day

Without these people it wouldn’t happen:
The 2 Medical Regiment Welfare Officer with her welfare team