Past Events

September 5th & 6th - RYA Powerboat Level Two course

August 15th & 16th - RYA Level 1 Sailing Weekend

June 13th & 14th - Powerboat L2 course

March - Moving Forward Residential

RYA Powerboat Level Two course - September

Another RYA Powerboat Level Two course delivered and completed!

Congratulations to the latest nine newly qualified Powerboat operators. May you have many hours of fun of the water getting your hours in to make yourselves eligible for our future Safety Boat operators course.

RYA LEVEL 1 SAILING WEEKEND

Another fantastic weekend at YMCA Lakeside! Congratulations to our newly qualified RYA Level 1 sailors, and a special thank you to Rob and Matty who delivered the course on 15th & 16th August.

Don't take our word for it.....

Hear from Debbie

Debbie has just completed our L2 Powerboat course in June, and highly recommends it for learning new skills, having fun, and meeting like-minded people. If you're interested in taking part in our next Powerboat course - 5th & 6th September at Lakeside YMCA - head to the Activities page to book your place.

MORE INFORMATION

RYA POWERBOAT L2 COURSE - JUNE

13th & 14th June 2026: What a fantastic weekend delivering our first of many RYA Powerboat Level Two course! Every single person got so much out of it, special thank you to YMCA Lakeside. Spending two full days learning new skills, building confidence, and getting hands‑on with proper powerboat handling was brilliant in itself … but doing it alongside like‑minded veterans made it something special. Being around people who “get it” — the humour, the banter, the teamwork, the graft — created an atmosphere you just don’t find anywhere else. We pushed each other, supported each other, and had a good laugh along the way. Benefits we took away: a nationally recognised qualification that opens doors to volunteering, water safety roles, and future training; practical skills in boat handling, safety, navigation, and decision‑making. A confidence boost from stepping outside the comfort zone. Stronger connections with other veterans who share the same drive and mindset. A proper sense of achievement at the end of the weekend. It wasn’t just a course — it was purpose, and progress. Here’s to more opportunities like this!

If you’re thinking about getting involved next time … do it. You won’t regret it.

Moving Forward Residential Programme

Our first Moving Forward Residential took place in March for four-days at YMCA Lakeside, on the shores of Lake Windermere.

YMCA Lakeside outdoor education centre is a dedicated site designed to offer personal development programmes to people of all ages. We will use the modern facilities and have exclusive access to everything the site offers for the weekend. The Moving Forward programme will use the lake, the surrounding fell side and the woodland to support our key themes. Our approach to all outdoor exercises and group work is ‘Challenge By Choice’. Only you can decide how involved you want to be in any of the activities.

All meals will be fully catered, and you will have a single, ensuite room (using the bunk rooms pictured). Lakeside is not a hotel, but it still provides a comfortable, supportive environment for everyone on the programme. The staff are on hand to support you throughout your time at Lakeside. Our course is designed for veterans struggling with anxiety, loss of confidence, or indecision. For others, it can deepen into isolation, poor life choices, or a feeling of no longer belonging. Our residential programmes are designed to intervene before people reach crisis point - offering space, structure, and skilled support at a moment when it can make a real difference.

Our approach is aspirational, individual-centred, and grounded in respect.

We don't tell people who they should become – we help them rediscover who they already are, and how to move forward with resilience and purpose.

Your support network awaits

You’re not alone in this journey.

Many veterans and their families face challenges that seem daunting. Feeling isolated and struggling with mental health are common experiences after Serving. At Veterans Connect North, we understand the unique transition back to civilian life. We offer free social and well-being activities that connect you with others who share similar experiences. By engaging with our community, you’ll regain your confidence, foster new friendships, and ultimately thrive in a supportive environment. The journey towards healing begins with taking action and seeking help.