Armed Forces Community HQ

Armed Forces Community HQ (AFCHQ) is a Community Interest Company, originally established as Wigan Borough Armed Forces Community HQ in 2018. It was created in response to the growing need for a safe space for veterans, their families, and carers within Wigan. With an estimated Armed Forces community of 22,000 in the area, AFCHQ operates an open-door policy, providing support, regular events, and a space for individuals to connect and discuss any concerns.

In 2019, AFCHQ partnered with Wigan Council to lead the Tackling Serious Stress in Veterans, their Families, and Carers programme, funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust. This two-year initiative strengthened AFCHQ’s core services, offering a ‘one-stop’ support hub to help veterans overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, AFCHQ played a vital role in community support efforts, assisting Wigan Council with food parcel deliveries, prescription drop-offs, and welfare checks.

Since 2022, AFCHQ has expanded beyond Wigan, now providing vital support to the Armed Forces community across Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and the North West.