Column - Somerset Council leader on Armed Forces Day

Representatives of the armed forces and Royal British Legion gathered for a short flag-raising ceremony.

Somerset is home to tens of thousands of veterans — somewhere between 30,000 and 45,000 by latest estimates — and while many thrive in civilian life, we know some need support.

That’s why local Armed Forces hubs, charities, and council services are working together to make sure help is there when it’s needed, whether for housing, health, or simply a place to connect.

I have visited ARC (formerly Taunton Association for the Homeless) and Ark at Eggwood in the last year to see how well they support our veteran community.

I know Somerset Council’s homelessness team supports many veterans every year, and the NHS veterans' workers provide fantastic support with mental and physical health.

We are fortunate to have many voluntary organisations that work to help those who have served.

Bridgwater Royal British Legion and the Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club work together as a team to bring Armed Forces Day to Bridgwater for its fourth year.

This year it will take place at Morganians Rugby Club, Chedzoy Lane, Bridgwater, TA7 8QW on Saturday, 27th June 2026.

Somerset Armed Forces Day on July 4th will bring Somerset Council’s Vivary Park in Taunton to life with a full programme of displays, live performances, and family-friendly activities, creating a space where people of all ages can come together to show their support.

It has grown into one of the largest free public events of its kind in the South West, attracting tens of thousands of people each year — a clear sign of how strongly our county feels about recognising those who serve.

At its core, this day is about people.

It’s about the servicemen and women currently on duty, the veterans who have returned to build their lives in communities like ours, and the families who support them every step of the way.

It’s also about the cadets and young people who represent the next generation, carrying forward that same spirit of service.

Somerset has deep and proud military connections.

Many residents will know someone who has served — perhaps a neighbour, colleague, or member of their own family.

Armed Forces Day gives us all an opportunity to pause and say a simple but important "thank you" for that commitment.

But it is also about understanding the realities behind that service.

Life in the armed forces can mean time away from loved ones, frequent moves, and often a challenging transition back into civilian life.

That is why our commitment as a council goes beyond symbolic support.

Through the Armed Forces Covenant, we are working to ensure that those who serve or have served are treated fairly and are not disadvantaged when accessing services.

Whether that’s helping veterans find a home, supporting access to healthcare, or working with local employers to create meaningful job opportunities, our responsibility is practical as well as moral.

Events like the ones in Bridgwater and Taunton play a vital role in bringing that commitment to life.

They help bridge the gap between civilian and military life, offering residents a chance to meet service personnel, learn more about what they do, and appreciate the skills and resilience they bring back into our communities.

And just as importantly, they are enjoyable community occasions.

From live entertainment to military displays, there is something for everyone — a reminder that coming together as a community is one of the most powerful ways we can show our appreciation.

I would encourage as many people as possible to come along this year.

Whether you have a direct connection to the armed forces or simply want to show your support, your presence sends a powerful message — that in Somerset, we value service, we respect sacrifice, and we stand behind those who defend our country.

Armed Forces Day may last just one day, but the spirit behind it — gratitude, respect, and community — is something we carry with us all year round.