Sunday 5th November is Guy Fawkes/Bonfire Night, and the Council would like to encourage people to stay safe and be considerate to others whilst enjoying themselves this year.
To celebrate, Valley Veterans are hosting a cinema night, and they encourage all local veterans to join. The event will be taking place at the Ton Pentre community centre 5pm, the common meeting place for Valley Veterans group. During the evening there will be a screening of a popular movie, food and refreshments, and the opportunity to socialise with likeminded individuals.
Paul Bromwell, Chief Executive of Valley Veterans, said: “Valley Veterans have always welcomed celebrations for Bonfire Night in a way that is inclusive for our veterans.
“For Bonfire Night this year, we will be hosting a firework-free evening with movies and refreshments, to provide individuals with a safe space to enjoy the evening.
“We welcome all members of the Armed Forces community, but particularly veterans, to join us from 5pm onwards on Sunday 5 November at Ton Pentre community centre for the festivities.”
Remember, Remember, the Fifth of November, and those individuals who constantly live with PTSD.
Halloween and Bonfire Night is an exciting time of the year for many, but for others it can be a time of stress and anxiety. Fireworks, loud noises, bright lights, and door-knocking can cause stress inducing for our veterans, many of whom live with Post-Traumatic Stress disorder (PTSD).
PTSD amongst military veterans has increased over the past 15 years, with over a quarter reporting that they have experienced common symptoms. These symptoms include flashbacks and nightmares, aches and pains, feelings of panic and fear, and many more. It is important that as a community we stay mindful of our veterans on this occasion.
Cllr. Maureen Webber, Deputy Leader of the Council and Armed Forces Champion, said: “It is lovely to see so many people getting together at this time of year to enjoy Bonfire Night. However, the Council are mindful that others, particularly our veterans, can struggle.
“It is fantastic to see that there are firework-free events taking place that are inclusive of individuals with PTSD, who may struggle with the loud noises and intense lights caused by fireworks.
“I am sure that Valley Veterans’ Bonfire Night will be a quiet and safe space for all to enjoy.”
Valley Veterans are a veteran-led, community-based volunteer group who provide support to veterans across RCT. They were founded over 16 years ago and are supported by the Council to provide assistance with mental health, PTSD, and other community support.
For further information about Valley Veterans, contact the group via email at enquiries@valleyveterans.org or by calling 07733 896 128.
Bonfire Night is also a very busy time for our Emergency Services. Fireworks and very dangerous if not handled appropriately by an adult, and bonfires can spread quickly if mismanaged. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council implores everyone to be careful and safe this year, ensuring not to put anyone at risk.
For more information on how to stay safe this 5 November, please visit: https://www.southwales-fire.gov.uk/newsroom/news/stay-home-stay-safe-this-fireworks-night/
Posted on 01/11/2023