Ex-homeless British veterans complete two-week heritage restoration in Malta

A group of previously homeless British veterans have returned to the UK after completing a two-week heritage restoration mission in Malta. The group of 10 former personnel from the Army, Royal Navy and RAF took part in the Heritage that Heals programme, which combines conservation work with wellbeing support.

The veterans worked to preserve historic military sites at Fort Delimara and an outpost near Dingli, with support from Heritage Malta and the Armed Forces of Malta. The initiative was organised by the charity Alabaré as part of its approach to supporting veterans through structured heritage projects.

It was developed in collaboration with the University of Bangor and Archaeology Warwickshire. Over the two-week period the participants delivered a total of 900 hours of restoration labour, valued at more than £12,000 at the UK minimum wage.

Wellbeing improvements recorded The programme recorded that 69 per cent of participants reported enhanced psychological wellbeing. Researchers used the nationally recognised Shorter Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale and measured an average improvement of 3.14 points.

According to the scale's criteria an increase of three points represents a substantial and meaningful positive shift in attitudes and overall wellbeing. Such improvements are viewed as foundational in supporting individuals toward independent living.

The visit also included cultural engagements with representatives from British and Maltese authorities. The deployment coincided with Anzac Day on April 25, during which participants laid a wreath at commemorations held at the Australian High Commissioner's residence.

Future collaboration planned Alabaré has received an invitation to bring another group of veterans to Malta in 2027 to undertake additional restoration projects. This extends the partnership with Heritage Malta and the Armed Forces of Malta. A spokesperson for Alabaré said the experience had given participants renewed purpose and camaraderie that many had not felt since leaving the forces.