FINALIST 2024
Around 10% of veterans returning to civilian life struggle with the transition. Whether mentally, physically or socially wounded, many ex-service personnel find adjusting to a new way of life difficult. Formalised support for veterans making this adjustment is very limited and they often end up estranged from their families, have difficulty finding fulfilling work, or turn to alcohol or drugs to cope. Some even end up taking their own lives.
Walking With The Wounded commissioned this film, ‘Martin’s Journey’, to raise awareness of the issues facing veterans and of the work it does to empower veterans by reigniting their sense of purpose, enabling them to make a positive contribution to their communities and lead independent lives.
It shows a ‘night in the life’ of real-life veteran, Martin, and his family, following Martin on a night shift working as an HGV drive and travelling home to rejoin his family. Natural light, in particular sunset, the darkness of a night shift, and sunrise are used to support the film's narrative arc and emotional journey.
Over the course of the journey, Martin thoughtfully shares his story and explains how Walking With The Wounded has supported him and helped him to get back up from “rock bottom".
In his words:
“If it weren’t for Walking With The Wounded, I wouldn’t be here. I wouldn’t, I just wouldn’t. They were with me every step of the way. It’s still not finished, but getting there. Getting there.”
Creative agency: MOREVER
Walking With The Wounded (WWTW) is a leading UK military charity which recognises that those who served, deserve. It empowers veterans by reigniting their sense of purpose, enabling them to make a positive contribution to their communities and lead independent lives.
Whether mentally, physically or socially wounded it supports ex-service personnel and their families most in need through personalised programmes to help veterans who are struggling after military service.
WWTW is an award-winning and accredited mental health, support care coordination (social work) and employment support service with unique expertise in providing support for ex-Forces with complex needs across the UK, including Scotland and Northern Ireland.
“If it weren’t for Walking With The Wounded, I wouldn’t be here. I wouldn’t, I just wouldn’t. They were with me every step of the way. It’s still not finished, but getting there. Getting there.”
Martin, Army veteran and WWTW beneficiary
With our thanks to Martin, Kerry and their two children, Callum and Evie-Rose, for their contribution to this film.
