The AFC Collective CIC is a veteran-led community workshop using carpentry as a way to rebuild confidence, routine, and connection. Built by those who have served, for those who have served, we provide a calm, practical space where hands-on craft becomes a tool for focus, recovery, and purpose. This is not about profit or pressure. It is about belonging, steady progress, and building something real, together.
What We Do
At the AFCC Collective CIC, we provide practical carpentry sessions and small build projects designed to support veterans through hands-on work, routine, and shared purpose. Activities range from basic woodworking and tool skills to larger community and workshop builds, all delivered in a calm, respectful environment where people can work at their own pace.
We focus on creating a space where veterans can rebuild confidence, develop or refresh trade skills, and reconnect with others who understand service life. There is no pressure to perform, no targets to hit, and no expectation to explain yourself. Just steady work, mutual respect, and progress you can see and feel.
Alongside individual projects, we also take on community builds and donation-based work where possible, allowing members to contribute to something bigger and give back through their skills. Every project is about more than timber and tools — it is about structure, routine, and building forward, one solid step at a time.
Who It’s For
Our sessions are open to veterans of all backgrounds and service histories who would benefit from practical, structured activity in a supportive environment. We welcome those transitioning out of service, those struggling to find direction, and those simply looking for positive community and routine.
Participants can be self referred or signposted by support organisations. No formal diagnosis is required, and participation is always voluntary and pressure free.
Why Carpentry Works
Carpentry is physical, practical, and focused. It requires attention, patience, and problem solving, which naturally brings the mind into the present moment. For many veterans, this kind of hands on work helps quiet the noise and creates a sense of control and direction that can be hard to find elsewhere.
Working with timber also gives visible progress. You start with rough materials and, step by step, turn them into something solid and useful. That process builds confidence, reinforces routine, and reminds people that they are capable of learning, improving, and finishing what they start.
Just as important is the shared environment. Working alongside others, without pressure to talk or perform, creates natural connection and mutual respect. Conversations happen when they happen. Silence is also fine. That balance of focus, structure, and quiet social contact is what makes the workshop a safe and steady place for recovery and growth.
How to Get Involved
There are several ways to get involved with the AFC Collective CIC, whether you are a veteran looking to take part, a skilled tradesperson wanting to give back, or a supporter who believes in what we are building.
Veterans are welcome to reach out directly to ask about attending sessions or getting involved in projects. No experience is required and there is no pressure to commit long term. Come down, see the space, and take things at your own pace.
We also welcome volunteers with carpentry, joinery, building, or workshop experience who are willing to share skills, help supervise projects, or support newer members in a practical, down to earth way.
Supporters and local businesses can help through donations of timber, fixings, tools, PPE, and materials, or by offering time, advice, and connections that help the Collective grow and reach more people.
If you would like to take part, volunteer, or support the project, please contact us through our Facebook page or by email and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
Our Mission
To support veterans through hands on carpentry, shared work, and community, helping rebuild confidence, routine, and purpose in a calm and respectful environment.
Support and Donations
The Collective is currently self funded and built through personal commitment and community support. We welcome donations of materials, tools, PPE, and practical help from trades and local businesses as important, as financial donations and go directly toward workshop improvements, equipment, and running costs, helping us offer more sessions to veterans for free.
If you would like to support the project, please get in touch and we will be happy to talk through how you can help.
Safeguarding and Safety
The AFC Collective CIC is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for everyone who attends our sessions. The wellbeing of participants, volunteers, and visitors is always our first priority.
All activities are supervised by experienced individuals, and tasks are matched to each person’s ability and confidence level. No one is asked to carry out work they are not comfortable with, and support is always available when learning new tools or techniques.
We operate clear workshop rules covering safe tool use, personal protective equipment, and safe working practices. Risk assessments are carried out for all activities, and the workshop layout and procedures are designed to minimise hazards and promote safe movement and working.
Safeguarding concerns are taken seriously and handled in line with best practice. We aim to maintain an environment based on respect, inclusion, and zero tolerance for bullying, discrimination, or unsafe behaviour. Anyone who feels uncomfortable or unsafe is encouraged to speak to a supervisor or contact us directly so concerns can be addressed promptly and appropriately.
As the Collective grows, we will continue to develop formal safeguarding policies, volunteer guidance, and partnerships with relevant support services to ensure the highest standards of care and safety are maintained.
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