Tesco sets up in-store veteran cafes in new partnership with Help for Heroes
Tesco has launched a partnership with Help for Heroes, resulting in three veteran cafes popping up across the country.
The small trial sees the cafes launch in Nottingham, Wrexham and Birmingham, and is aimed at giving veterans a space to get together and enjoy complimentary drinks.
As well as enjoying a free drink, veterans and families are also able to speak to specialists from Help for Heroes, if needed.
Tesco is a leading private sector employer of veterans and has its own Armed Forces Network, which act as a support system and community for veterans, reservists, and military family members working within the company.
In 2025, its Armed Forces Network agreed a three-year partnership with Help for Heroes to further support the armed forces across the country.
In Nottingham, the monthly cafes will be hosted by Linda Stone, who works as part of Help for Heroes Community Development team.
She told the West Bridgford Wire: “There is clearly a requirement for such a facility in this area, as we know there are more than 35,300 veterans living across Nottinghamshire, and 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.
“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 Forces communities and inspire the wider public to get involved.”
Tesco Armed Forces Network Chair, Sabrina Lungo said: “Our network is proud to host the Help for Heroes café at The Cafe in our Tesco Nottingham Hucknall Extra store, giving veterans a place to make meaningful connections, get support and catch up with other ex-service personnel over a coffee.
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“Help for Heroes provides vital support for the Armed Forces community, and we look forward to seeing how local veterans benefit from this initiative.”
Ken Bellringer, who is a veteran and an ambassador for Help for Heroes living in Nottinghamshire, said: “When you leave the Armed Forces, you leave behind a huge support network and many veterans, like me, find themselves isolated and lonely at times.
“It’s hard to ask for help; we often feel that makes us a failure.
“During my service, I found that many issues could be resolved by discussing things with friends and colleagues over a brew.
“At the time, I didn’t realise how important these chats were or the effect missing them would have on me.
“Fortunately, Tesco has opened its doors to a Help for Heroes cafe where veterans and their families can meet in a safe and comfortable environment.
He ended by adding, “And, of course, there’s no better place for this than Nottinghamshire.”
The first Help for Heroes event ran yesterday, with plans for them to run monthly in Nottingham, Birmingham, and Wrexham.
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