Tesco Opens Three Veteran Cafes in Partnership With Help for Heroes

Tesco has opened three veteran cafes in Nottingham, Wrexham and Birmingham through a partnership with Help for Heroes. The trial provides veterans and their families with a place to meet and receive complimentary drinks. Veterans can also speak with Help for Heroes specialists at the cafes if they need support. The first event took place yesterday, with monthly sessions planned at each location.

Tesco employs veterans through its Armed Forces Network, which supports current and former service members and their families. In 2025 the network entered a three-year partnership with Help for Heroes to expand assistance across the country.

Stone of Help for Heroes said more than 35,300 veterans live in Nottinghamshire and called the Tesco venue arrangement heart-warming. She added that all veterans are welcome regardless of length of service. Sabrina Lungo, Tesco Armed Forces Network Chair, said the cafes give veterans a place to make connections and receive support.

Ken Bellringer, a Help for Heroes ambassador and veteran living in Nottinghamshire, said many veterans feel isolated after leaving the armed forces and that the cafes offer a safe environment for discussion.