A new veterans’ cafe is launching in Wrexham.
It will open at The Café at Tesco Wrexham Extra in partnership with Help for Heroes.
The scheme will offer former forces personnel and their families a welcoming space to connect over refreshments and conversation.
The first event will take place on Wednesday, May 20, from 10am to 12pm.
It will include free hot drinks, friendly conversation, and opportunities to speak with Help for Heroes staff and others with shared experiences.
Nick Settle from Help for Heroes said: "There is, clearly, a requirement for such a facility in this area, as we know there are more than 5,000 veterans living across Wrexham alone.
"It is heart-warming that Tesco has agreed to work with us to provide a venue and a drink for those interested in participating.
"I’m also keen to discuss any ideas people may have for improving community life for veterans and their families.
"It doesn’t matter how long you served, all veterans can come along, meet fellow veterans, enjoy a brew and a chat, and, if required, talk to specialists from the Charity who may be able to provide support in several areas."
The cafe is part of a new pilot between Tesco and Help for Heroes.
Tesco is the leading private sector employer of veterans and operates its own Armed Forces Network.
This group supports veterans, reservists and military families within the business.
In 2025, Tesco’s Armed Forces Network agreed a three-year partnership with Help for Heroes to further support the armed forces community in various regions across the country.
Mr Settle said: "Tesco is the largest private employer of veterans, and its Armed Forces Network is a vibrant and supportive community.
"Together, we’ll deliver initiatives that will help build Armed Force communities and inspire the wider public to get involved."
Chris Jones, a Wrexham resident and former Royal Corps of Transport driver, knows first-hand the importance of such schemes.
He suffered a life-changing road accident that left him in a coma for five months.
He now lives with chronic pain, along with chronic rheumatoid arthritis and has lost his hearing completely. He also manages anxiety and PTSD.
About the scheme, he said: "For some, isolation can be a big problem.
"They find it difficult to reach out for support, and can feel wider society doesn’t really understand them.
"That's why having a safe, comfortable environment, where they can get together with like-minded people, is important.
"It’s really positive news that Tesco in Wrexham is opening its doors to veterans, as there aren’t enough opportunities like this in the local area.
"I’d like to encourage any former members of the armed forces, and their family members, to come along.
"Sometimes getting together with other people on a regular basis for a cup of tea and a chat can make a big difference to your mental and physical health."
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Sabrina Lungo, chair of Tesco’s Armed Forces Network, welcomed the launch of the cafe.
She said: "Our network is proud to host the Help for Heroes at The Café, in our Tesco Wrexham Extra store, giving veterans a place to make meaningful connections, get support, and catch up with other ex-service personnel over a coffee."
For more information, visit www.helpforheroes.org.uk/cafes.
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