East Kent Mind Armed Forces Connector Karen Brinkman celebrated by Dame Kelly Holmes
The work of East Kent Mind’s Armed Forces Connector, Karen Brinkman, was celebrated during Mental Health Awareness Week after she was nominated for A Million Acts of Hope.
A Million Acts of Hope is a UK-wide campaign and week of action that brings together charities, community groups and faith groups to celebrate everyday acts of kindness, care, connection and hope across Britain.
As part of the nomination, Karen was surprised with a visit from legendary Olympian Dame Kelly Holmes and the A Million Acts of Hope film crew, during the Thanet Female Veterans Group trip to Chatham Historic Dockyard.
Dame Kelly is a veteran herself and served in the Army for nearly a decade. She joined the Army aged 17 and initially served as a lorry driver in the Women’s Royal Army Corps. She later became a Physical Training Instructor in the Adjutant General’s Corps, reaching the rank of Sergeant before becoming a full-time athlete in 1997.
As she joined the veterans and volunteers for coffee, Dame Kelly realised she had served at the same time as some of the group members.
Dame Kelly represented Great Britain and Northern Ireland at three Olympic Games. In 2004, she became one of Britain’s most celebrated Olympians after winning gold in both the 800m and 1500m at the Athens Games.
Karen Brinkman said:
“What a great experience. We had such a fantastic time at our VIP day at Chatham Historic Dockyard meeting Dame Kelly Holmes. I’m so proud to be East Kent Mind’s Armed Forces Connector, and I’m also passionate about supporting local small businesses and the wider community.
“During A Million Acts of Hope week, we have had another wonderful veterans’ trip, with more than 30 veterans visiting RBVE. I will also be talking on Academy FM about our Thrive After 50 event, which is bringing together more than 70 amazing local organisations to showcase the fantastic opportunities, support and activities available in our area.
“I was asked what brings me hope. For me, it is seeing communities come together and knowing that by spreading the word and connecting people, we can help make a real difference. Life can be tough, but surrounding yourself with good people and saying yes to opportunities can be life-changing.
“It was such a joy to visit Chatham Historic Dockyard with the Female Veterans Group, an honour to meet Dame Kelly Holmes, and wonderful to see the women’s bond grow even stronger through this shared experience.
“Only four projects were picked nationally to be filmed with a VIP, so we felt extremely lucky.”
Q&A with Karen Brinkman
Were you excited to meet the VIP?
Yes, absolutely. I didn’t know who the VIP guest would be on the day, as they kept it a surprise, but they did give a few clues. It was a lovely surprise to find out it was Dame Kelly Holmes.
What does your role as Armed Forces Connector entail?
My role is to support ex-military personnel and their families. I help signpost them to local organisations, support services and community groups. I also organise activities that help reduce isolation, improve wellbeing, and build connection. I also run a Female Veterans Group.
Why should people join the Veterans Project?
Because it offers connection, understanding and support from people with shared experiences. It helps reduce isolation, improves wellbeing, and opens the door to new friendships, activities and opportunities in the local community.
You can find out more information about the Project on our Veterans webpage
If you would like to come along to our Veteran Recognition Awards and Information Fair on Tuesday, 2 June. Please visit our information page
The event combines a networking opportunity for ex-military along with an awards session that celebrates veteran support of the community.
