THE VC GALLERY
VETERANS & COMMUNITY
We are here to help you express yourselves.
MEET THE VC SQUAD
The VC Gallery is a registered Charity based in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire. We help service veterans and those in the wider community by getting them engaged in a variety of art projects. We passionately believe that art and culture can improve health, wellbeing, and overall quality of life. The VC Gallery was founded by Barry John MBE after his 24 years of service in the Army. With his artistic background and his involvement in mental health work, he realised the need in the community for his expertise and experiences. Now the VC Gallery is working with veterans, older people, children, and anyone who feels they need time out to socialise and express themselves through art.
Our Board of Trustees
Mr Mark Jolly - Chairman
Dr Simon Hancock - Vice Chairman
Mr Joshua Beynon - Secretary
Mr John Warlow - Board Member
Mrs Michelle Bateman - Board Member
Mr Mark Shuttleworth - Board Member
BARRY JOHN MBE
VC Gallery CEO
Barry John MBE is a Welsh soldier and artist. He served in the British Army for over 20 years.
CHRIS PALING
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
JOSH SIMMONS
PEER MENTOR
ANN RUSSELL
VOLUNTEER ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
VICTORIA JONES
VOLUNTEER CARE LEAD/IT SUPPORT
STEPH CROSS
PROJECT MANAGER
Steph joined The VC Gallery in 2018 and, with her background in business, she is now the Project Manager.
DAN BACKHOUSE
COUNSELLOR
KEVIN STANLEY
PEER MENTOR
SHANE PEARCE
TECH SUPPORT BUDDY
ANGELA STANLEY
ADMIN
In addition to our fabulous members of staff we also have a dedicated and rather fantastic team of volunteers without whom The VC Gallery wouldnt be the same... if you are interested in joining our team of volunteers please contact chris@thevcgallery.com or call for more information on 01437765873.
SOCIALISING
Our aims in terms of socialising are simple: the community is everything to us. We give to Pembrokeshire a safe, creative environment for serving, ex-services, and the community. For veterans who may not wish to get involved with the creative process, we aim to have both a hub to use and also a safe place to visit and have a coffee.
ART ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOPS
At the VC Gallery, art is used as a creative medium for reducing social exclusion and increasing confidence amongst a wide range of people in the local community. Our studio and gallery space offer the opportunity for people from all walks of life to express themselves through art. Community members can exhibit their works for members of the public to see and purchase.
VETERANS
The majority of our veterans fair well after leaving the armed forces, suffering no ill effects, entering full-time employment and leading meaningful and fulfilling lives. However, some veterans need support to readjust back into civilian life. The VC Gallery is a "single point-of-access" welfare and support hub for veterans. In addition, we are a signposting and referral service, a community social hub, and a charity working in partnership with public and third-sector agencies as well as specialised national charities.
COMMUNITY
By running projects and workshops for the community, we aim to engage people of all ages and enhance their personal, social, and educational development. Our work is not only limited to veterans; we are open to people with mental or physical disabilities, to both the young and elderly, and to anyone who feels alone, disadvantaged, or isolated. Our projects run all year round and provide the ability to build self-confidence and new skills. We frequently collaborate with schools, community centres, care homes, and youth clubs. Individuals who feel detached from society are catered for by our comforting volunteers, assisting them with everything from mental health to issues with finance and housing.
