“Its more than art - it's about socialising, community spirit and self expression”
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.
What We Do
Support for 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.
Here for the 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.
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.
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.
Our Team
Founder and CEO
Barry John MBE
Project Manager
Steph Cross
Volunteer Coordinator
Chris Paling
Counsellor
Dan Backhouse
Peer Mentor
Josh Simmons
Peer Mentor
Kevin Stanley
Volunteer Artist In Residence
Ann Russell
Volunteer Care Lead/IT Support
Victoria Jones
Administrator
Angela Stanley
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 get in touch and we can have a chat about how you can get involved!
Our Trustees
Chairman
Mark Jolly
Vice Chairman
Dr Simon Hancock
Secretary
Joshua Beynon
Board Member
John Warlow
Board Member
Michelle Bateman
Board Member
Mark Shuttleworth
The VC Gallery is a registered charity (No. 1172407) and is funded through grants, donations, and fundraising events. We are grateful for the support of our sponsors who help us to provide our services to veterans and the wider community in Pembrokeshire.